A fiver each to pay for bench

9:15am Friday 5th October 2001

IF every household in Marlow Bottom gave £5 the village could have its own Sir Steve Redgrave sculpture, says a residents' association.

The Marlow Bottom Residents' Association is behind the proposed bench which is expected to cost around £5,000.

Valley-based sculptor Steve Woodbridge presented his ideas and launched the appeal to a packed public meeting on Monday night.

The bench includes the Olympic rings which could be cast in bronze, and Sir Steve in three rowing positions.

But Mr Woodbridge warned if the rings are cast in bronze it would at least double the cost of the project.

The seat will be wooden and carved into an undulating wave effect. The legs of the bench are modelled on the outriggers used to support the oars on the side of rowing boats.

Sir Steve has already given a generous donation to the appeal and Great Marlow Parish Council has also promised to donate money.

Mr Woodbridge said: "The legs will be forged from solid stainless steel which will be polished after forging. This shiny reflective surface will give the impression that the sculpture is floating. It will seat two on side and three on the other."

Donations can be made at Hufflets Hardware or Longhursts butchers in the valley.

To find out more call 01628 483895