A life-size statue of Ebenezer Howard, the founder of Letchworth Garden City, was installed in the grounds of the Spirella Building earlier this week.

The Comet: Peter Colvin has created a life-size statue of Ebenezer Howard. Picture: Letchworth Garden City Heritage FoundationPeter Colvin has created a life-size statue of Ebenezer Howard. Picture: Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation (Image: Archant)

The bronze statue was sculpted by a Letchworth businessman, Peter Colvin, who donated it to the town's Heritage Foundation.

Measuring eight feet tall and weighing almost a tonne, the work commemorates the important contribution made by social reformer, Ebenezer Howard, in establishing Letchworth as the world's first Garden City in 1903.

The Comet: Peter Colvin has created a life-size statue of Ebenezer Howard. Picture: Letchworth Garden City Heritage FoundationPeter Colvin has created a life-size statue of Ebenezer Howard. Picture: Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation (Image: Archant)

Mr Colvin commented: "I have no formal training in sculpture work, though after studying osteopathy and having lived and practised locally in Hitchin and Letchworth for 35 years,

"I developed an interest in the human form. I have always wanted to make a big bronze of an iconic figure and Ebenezer Howard was my first choice.

The Comet: Peter Colvin has created a life-size statue of Ebenezer Howard. Picture: Letchworth Garden City Heritage FoundationPeter Colvin has created a life-size statue of Ebenezer Howard. Picture: Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation (Image: Archant)

"I'm thrilled to see the work situated at Spirella, one of Letchworth's most iconic buildings."

Pam Burn, Chair of Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation, said: "We are very grateful to receive this generous donation from Mr Colvin and are pleased to present the sculpture prominently in the town for the community to enjoy."

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