A beloved comedian immortalized in bronze? That's the plan for Roy Hudd, and it's sparking both joy and debate. Plans for a life-sized statue of the late actor and comedian Roy Hudd, positioned near the Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds, have officially been submitted to West Suffolk Council. But here's where it gets controversial: while many celebrate the tribute to a local legend, others question the use of public space and the statue's £100,000 price tag, funded by private donations and Hudd's wife, Debbie.
Hudd, a Suffolk native who lived near Stowmarket, was a household name thanks to his 26-year stint hosting BBC Radio 2's The News Huddline and his role in Coronation Street. His sudden passing in 2020 left fans grieving, and Debbie Hudd, unable to hold a traditional memorial due to the Covid-19 pandemic, envisioned a lasting tribute. Her idea? A brass statue of Roy sitting on a bench outside the theatre he adored, where he once starred in Good Night Mister Tom to record-breaking audiences.
The statue, crafted by local sculptor Sean Hedges-Quinn (known for his Sir Alf Ramsay statue in Ipswich), isn’t just a memorial—it’s a beacon. Debbie hopes it will draw new audiences to the theatre, keeping Roy’s legacy alive. But this is the part most people miss: the proposed site on Westgate Street is currently a bin storage area, requiring relocation, repaving, and even the demolition of a nearby wall. Is this transformation worth it?
And this is where it gets even more intriguing. While the statue’s unveiling is hoped for May, coinciding with what would have been Roy’s 90th birthday, the council’s decision is still pending. Will it become a cherished landmark or a point of contention? What do you think? Should public spaces prioritize art and memorials, or are there better uses for such areas? Let us know in the comments—this debate is just getting started!
