New sculpture has been funded by EHDC’s Grow Up! campaign
Jane Austen has been given pride of place on Alton High Street thanks to a sculpture funded by East Hampshire District Council’s Grow Up! campaign.
The author, world famous for works such as Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion, has been immortalised in bronze as part of celebrations for her 250th anniversary.
The sculpture, which has been placed in Alton’s Regency Garden outside Alton Assembly Rooms, was created through a project run by Alton Town Council and supported by funding from EHDC.
It was unveiled in a ceremony on Saturday 21 June as part of the town’s annual Regency Week.
EHDC’s contribution came through the Government-funded Rural Grants scheme, part of our wide-reaching Grow Up! programme. Our Grow Up! programme seeks to support our rural communities, promote local businesses and celebrate our rich heritage.
Attending the celebrations was Jane Austen’s Great Niece, Caroline Knight, who is now a celebrated historian of her illustrious ancestor, and the renowned sculptor Mark Coreth.
Joining her were community leaders, including Alton Town Mayor Cllr Annette Eyre, Chairman of EHDC, Cllr Graham Hill, Cllr Robert Mocatta, EHDC’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Prosperity and East Hampshire MP, Damian Hinds.
Cllr Annette Eyre, Town Mayor, said: "Jane Austen holds a special place in the heart of Alton and we are proud to honour her legacy with this beautiful sculpture. On behalf of Alton Town Council, I extend our sincere thanks to East Hampshire District Council and everyone involved in this project. We are confident it will enhance our town’s historical offering and attract visitors from near and far."
Cllr Robert Mocatta, EHDC’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Prosperity, said: “Jane Austen is one of East Hampshire’s most famous former residents. The people of Chawton and Alton are rightly proud of their association with this internationally renowned figure.
“The sculpture that now sits in the picturesque surrounds of the Regency Garden is the perfect way to commemorate her and her contribution to literature.
“I am absolutely thrilled that East Hampshire District Council could help to make this happen through our Rural Grant of £46,000. This funding is all part of our ongoing Grow Up! campaign that seeks to promote the district’s rich rural heritage.”
Cllr Graham Hill, EHDC Chairman, said: “We're very proud of Jane Austen in Alton and I am very pleased to see the wonderful sculpture installed overlooking the High Street.
“It’s very gratifying to know that East Hampshire District Council has played its part in supporting Alton Town Council to complete this statue and bring this magical memory of Jane to life.
“It will bring visitors to Alton, it will remind us all of her connections to the town and it will serve as a fitting memorial for Jane.”