|
Dad's Army Statue
Thetford Dad's
Army Museum Website
|
A
proposal has been made for a life sized statue of Captain Mainwaring seated
on a bench by the town bridge. The sketch below is an artist’s impression
of a proposed statue to commemorate the BBC TV programme, Dad's Army which
was filmed in and around Thetford between 1968 and 1977.Drawn by a local
artist, John Mayes, the location depicted is that by the town bridge
situated between the Bell and Anchor Hotels. These two hotels served as home
to the cast and crew during their time in Thetford. The Anchor was also the
setting for the first ever scene in the first ever episode, The Man and the
Hour filmed in 1968.The anchor is under threat of demolition by developers
who have purchased the site. In the background, Bridge House served as the
headquarters of Thetford's own Home Guard in World War II.
The land
for the proposed statue is owned by Breckland Council and it is hoped that
this will be made available in the near future. Thetford Town Council is
supportive of the proposal and it is hoped that an appeal for funds will
result in the project coming to fruition. Producers of the show, David Croft
and Jimmy Perry have indicated their approval and Arthur Lowe’s grandson has
been in contact and wishes to be kept up to date with progress.
If anyone
wishes to support the project please make cheques payable to ‘The Friends of
Thetford Dad’s Army Museum’ and send to: Belmont House, 20 King Street,
Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2AP. Contact telephone number 07802 701911. |
