Statue to the 'Queen of Crime' officially unveiled this weekend
The writer is known as Torquay's most famous daughter
A new tribute to the ‘Queen of Crime is being unveiled in Torquay this weekend.
The bronze statue, designed by local artist Elisabeth Hadley. is being placed at the town's marina and includes her beloved dog Peter at her feet.
Agatha was born in Torquay and remained on the English Riviera for much of her life - writing her first novel whilst working at the dispensary in the temporary war hospital at Torquay Town Hall. Many of her books were either set locally or inspired by the surrounding Devon scenery and Greenway, her Torbay holiday home, is now a National Trust property.
The International Agatha Christie Festival is hosting a Spring Gathering for 130 Agatha Christie enthusiasts and over the weekend.
Spring Gathering guests will take part in specially organised events and literary talks from speakers including Jeremy Vine, Victoria Dowd, and Robert Thorogood, before attending the statue unveiling and a celebration ball in the evening on Saturday.
The unveiling ceremony will be complemented by live performances, a family-friendly ‘who-done-it’ mystery trail, literary walks and a print workshop hosted by Double Elephant at Torquay Library, for all ages and abilities.
Local businesses are encouraged to get behind celebrating the life of Agatha Christie by having food and drink menus or their shop windows decorated, inspired by Agatha and the settings of her novels.
Cllr Jacqueline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services for Torbay Council, said; “We are thrilled to honour our literary icon, Agatha Christie with a wonderful new statue in Torquay, her birthplace. Her works have brought joy to millions of people from around the world. We hope this legacy will serve as a lasting tribute and inspire a new generation to explore her work.
“Residents and visitors are welcome to join us in April as we celebrate Agatha Christie with a programme of free events and activities in our newly created public realm space.”
Julie Brandon, Co-Founder of the Artizan Collective, said; "Agatha Christie is a cultural icon whose literary legacy has shaped not only the world of crime fiction but also the identity of the English Riviera.
“We are delighted to support the commissioning of a new statue that not only celebrates her influence but also ensures that recognition for this pioneering female writer comes from the hands of a talented female sculptor. It is particularly fitting that this work is being created by local artist Elisabeth Hadley, reinforcing the importance of investing in homegrown talent and recognising the role that the arts play in shaping the places we live.
“Public art has the power to tell stories, create connections, and enhance our shared spaces, and we’re proud to be part of a project that honours one of Torbay’s most remarkable figures in such a meaningful way."
Click here for more about the plans on Saturday
There's more about the statue here