West's top Stonemasons ensure that Sir Edward Elgar is ready for his 150th Birthday

27th March 2006

Somerset masons deliver a new stone plinth for Hereford’s memorial statue

2007 will see the 150th anniversary of the birth of Sir Edward Elgar – one of Britain’s greatest composers.

West-based Wells Cathedral Stonemasons have replaced the carved plinth for the famous bronze statue of the composer, leaning against his bicycle, displayed beside Hereford Cathedral – ready for the anniversary year.

According to Peter Arkell, Managing Director of Wells Cathedral Stonemasons: “One of the great joys or our work is the contribution we are able to make to preserving highlights of our nation’s history – from restoring ancient buildings to reviving important memorials, like this unique statue of Elgar”.

The Edward Elgar Society is working towards the aim of making 2007 a major celebration of the English composer.

“The Hereford statue captures the essence of this wonderful composer, who used his bicycle to tour the by-ways of Worcestershire and Herefordshire to find the inspiration for so many of his orchestral works”, said Mr Arkell.