News

Howzat for a striking sculpture!

(20.11.2007)

Local people have been ‘bowled over’ by an impressive new sculpture unveiled at Morgan Jones Park in Caerphilly.

The striking structure has been carved from a dead tree and the unique design portrays a cricket umpire with his finger held in the air as if shouting ‘You’re out!’

The Horse Chestnut tree had died as a result of Honey Fungus, but rather than simply cut it down, Caerphilly county borough council decided to turn it into a piece of art.

The tree is located on the edge of a cricket field so it was agreed to give the sculpture a suitable sporting theme. In the carving the umpire is wearing 5 hats and two extra jumpers, because the players often use umpires as a ‘clotheshorse’.

Local artist Dai Edwards carried out all the sculpting with a chainsaw and the work in progress became a regular attraction for park users over recent weeks.

CCBC cabinet member, Cllr Keith Griffiths, said, “It’s amazing to see a dead tree transformed into a piece of public artwork and I’d like to congratulate Dai on the quality of his craftsmanship. Morgan Jones Park is a flagship site and this exciting sculpture is the latest addition to the park’s many popular attractions.”

Morgan Jones Park is one of the area’s premier parks and the award-winning site boasts sporting facilities, a modern playground, a splash park and attractive open spaces for local people to enjoy.