Queen Elizabeth II sculpture unveiled at Romsey Abbey
A new life-size bronze sculpture of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has been unveiled at Romsey Abbey, providing a lasting tribute to the late monarch and her special connections to the town.
The artwork was officially unveiled on Friday (4 September) by the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire alongside the Countess Mountbatten of Burma during a ceremony attended by residents, community representatives and invited guests. The event included live music, speeches and an exhibition showcasing the story behind the sculpture's creation.
Hampshire sculptor Amy Goodman created the bronze statue to complete Test Valley Borough Council's Queen Elizabeth II sculpture project, which marked Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee. It follows the unveiling of a companion sculpture in Andover in 2024.
The Romsey sculpture depicts the Queen at the time of her coronation, stepping into a lifetime of service. The detailed robe incorporates imagery inspired by memories, stories and artwork shared by local residents and schoolchildren during an extensive community engagement programme. The design also celebrates the Queen's connection to Romsey, Broadlands and Romsey Abbey.
Amy Goodman said: "It has been a real privilege to create this sculpture of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for Romsey. Throughout the project, I've been inspired by the many stories, memories and contributions shared by local people, which have helped shape the design and make it deeply connected to the community.
"The sculpture reflects the Queen at a pivotal moment in her life, stepping into a lifetime of service, while also celebrating her special links to Romsey and the Abbey. The bronze of the statue works in harmony with the Abbey, and it already feels like she belongs there. I hope residents and visitors enjoy the artwork for many years to come."
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: "This has been a truly special occasion and marks the completion of a project that began as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
"What makes this sculpture particularly meaningful is the way the community helped shape it. Residents, schoolchildren and local organisations shared their memories, ideas and artwork, helping create a tribute that reflects not only Queen Elizabeth II's remarkable legacy, but also the communities she had such strong links with.
"The sculpture stands as a lasting reminder of a life dedicated to service and duty. We hope it will be enjoyed by residents and visitors for generations to come."
The sculpture has been installed in the north churchyard of Romsey Abbey, chosen for its historic links to the Royal Family and the Mountbatten family of Broadlands. From family weddings and royal visits to its close association with Lord Louis Mountbatten, the Abbey has played an important role in the story of Queen Elizabeth II and her family.
Visitors can also view an exhibition about the creation of the sculpture in Romsey Abbey over the next two weeks. The exhibition features artwork and contributions from local people that inspired the final design as well as a video showing the project from the beginning.