After spending a few months on a detour to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, the Captain Tom Moore statue has finally made its way to its permanent home in Leeds.
Located outside the entrance of the Chapel Allerton hospital, the bronze status has been months in the making.
The statue was donated to Leeds Hospitals Charity by sculptor Andrian Melka, who raised over £32,000 through online crowdfunding to bring this project to life.
Over 250 donations paid for the work to be completed and by late 2021, the statue was ready to show the public and now remains a symbol of hope for patients and staff at the hospital.
Located at the newly refurbished courtyard garden at Leeds Chapel Allerton Hospital, the statue is likely to be seen by patients who may have to stay in hospital for many months undergoing lengthy and intensive rehabilitation for traumatic brain injury, long-term neurological conditions or following a stroke.
Artist Andrian says “It’s hoped that the gardens will be a calming space for rest and relaxation and that the statue of the 100-year-old war veteran determinedly walking laps of his garden on his walking frame will inspire patients on their own difficult road to recovery.”
According to Leeds Hospital Charity, “Thanks to Captain Sir Tom’s fundraising efforts, raising over £38 million for NHS Charities Together, Leeds Hospitals Charity benefitted from £600,000 in funding.”
Artists Andrian hopes that the statue will inspire others visiting the hospital and told Leeds Hospital Charity:
“Captain Tom inspired so many people during the pandemic, not only with his incredible fundraising for the NHS but with his positive outlook and desire to be of service to others.
“Even at the age of 99, when most people would be sitting back, he wanted to do what he could to help others and to contribute.”
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To see the statue of Sir Captain Tom Moore for yourself, you can visit Chapel Allerton hospital and find the sculpture near the front entrance.
Feature Image- The Hoot Leeds
