Take That and marathon stars back our bench
Walkers and cyclists using the new Riversdale Bridge in Northwich are now able to share it with Take That frontman Gary Barlow and Marathon World Record-holder Paula Radcliffe.
A portrait bench featuring life-sized portraits of the famous pair, alongside that of a saltworker to reflect the unique history and culture of Northwich, has been officially unveiled as part of a national art project from Sustrans. Both stars have expressed delight at being chosen to appear on the bench.
Gary Barlow says; ‘When I was growing up in Cheshire I was outdoors a lot, either walking or on my bike. This route will give local people, particularly a new generation of youngsters, the opportunity to be more active so it will be a huge asset to the area. I’m delighted to be featured on the new artwork along the route and hope people feel inspired to use it regularly.’
Paula Radcliffe said; ‘I’m pleased to feature on the portrait bench. I hope that it will encourage people to get out along the walking and cycling route and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits that regular exercise brings.’
The three characters were selected as deserving local heroes to be immortalised in a portrait bench next to the River Dane after being nominated by local people.
The Riversdale bridge opened more than a year ago and is a quick and direct walking and cycling link between Greenbank and the Hartford Campus, and Leftwich and Sir John Deane’s College.
Peter Foster, Sustrans’ Director in the north west of England, says: ‘The bridge has given people more choice about how they make their local, daily journeys, meaning they can choose to leave their cars at home and walk or cycle instead. Now that the portrait bench is in place, it is an even better experience with a unique, local significance.’
Local Councillor Helen Weltman said: “Cheshire West and Chester Council is delighted to work with Sustrans on this exciting project. The portrait bench is a striking addition to the landscape. As well as being a great place to relax and enjoy the surroundings, it is sure to be a real point of intrigue for passers-by.”
The Northwich portrait bench is one of around 80 other portrait benches being created along walking and cycling routes around the UK, each depicting characters relevant to their local area.
It has been funded thanks to a grant awarded to Sustrans by the Big Lottery Fund, with the route and bench at Northwich led in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council.