As a big fan of footballer Ledley 'Ledders' King, who is an England international defender and captain of the mighty Tottenham Hotspur, I was pleased to hear that a new public artwork has been unveiled in Mile End Park, Tower Hamlets, with three local heroes Ledley King, Sylvia Pankhurst and an iconic canal towpath horse immortalised in steel as part of charity Sustrans’ 'portrait bench' initiative.
The bench is situated in Mile End Park alongside the new Meath Bridge, which having been installed in 2009 is already making a major difference to how people make their everyday journeys in the Borough. The characters were all chosen by the local community, and are part of a national project which is adorning new sections of Sustrans’ National Cycle Network in communities across the UK. Over 240 characters will be immortalised in steel when the project is completed.
Ledley King said, “To be recognised for any achievement is always a privilege and is especially welcome when it is something determined by the people of the area from which you were born. I’m proud of my roots in East London and I have fond memories of playing football there as a youngster.
“I hope the bench will contribute to the overall improvement of the area in which it is situated.”
Susan Homewood, of the Sylvia Pankhurst Trust, said, “Sylvia Pankhurst was a selfless and inspiring figure whose fascinating real-life story, set here in Bow during World War I, continues to give young people the confidence to do great things for others. We’re sure portrait bench will encourage further generations to learn more about her.”
Mark Blackwell, from British Waterways, added, “The canals have played an important part in the history of East London, and we’re delighted that local people have chosen to honour the working horse through Sustrans’ portrait bench initiative.
"The capital’s canals and towpaths are a green route through the city for walkers and cyclists; they are a haven for nature, a place to relax and a link to the past.”
Indeed. Congratulations to Sustrans on a worthy initiative.
