Full Breakdown
New Bronze Statue of Queen Elizabeth II to Be Unveiled at Romsey Abbey
9/4/2026, 8:23:59 PM
Core Event – Unveiling Planned for September 4
A life-sized bronze sculpture of the late Queen Elizabeth II, created by Hampshire artist Amy Goodman, will be revealed in the north churchyard of Romsey Abbey on Friday, September 4 at 1 p.m. The ceremony will be led by Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkinson and Penelope Knatchbull, Countess Mountbatten of Burma, with local officials and community members in attendance.
Background & Context – Royal Ties and the Platinum Jubilee
The statue is the second artwork commissioned by Test Valley Borough Council to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. Elizabeth II spent part of her honeymoon at nearby Broadlands and visited the abbey regularly, linking her legacy to Romsey.
Key Figures & Groups
- Amy Goodman – Hampshire-based sculptor.
- Nigel Atkinson – Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire.
- Penelope Knatchbull, Countess Mountbatten of Burma – Representative of the Mountbatten family.
- Colin Burgess, Cllr – Mayor of Romsey.
- Phil North, Cllr – Leader of Test Valley Borough Council.
- Thomas Warton, Rev – Cleric of Romsey Abbey.
- Caroline Nokes, MP – MP for Romsey and Southampton North.
Timeline
- September 1 – The bronze statue arrived in Romsey on a flat-loader truck, as shown on social media.
- September 4 – Official unveiling ceremony at Romsey Abbey’s north churchyard.
Data & Statistics
- Life-sized bronze figure placed in the north churchyard.
- Second of two Jubilee-related sculptures commissioned by the council.
Why It Matters
Council leaders expect the statue to become a landmark attraction, encouraging visitors to include Romsey in itineraries that also feature the New Forest. By tying the artwork to the Queen’s personal history in the town, officials hope it will reinforce local heritage and boost tourism revenue.
Official Statements & Responses
Mayor Colin Burgess called the unveiling “extremely exciting,” noting its suitability as a prominent town feature. Council leader Phil North said the sculpture reflects the Queen’s lifelong service. Rev Thomas Warton described the event as a “memorable, special occasion” for the abbey. MP Caroline Nokes regretted a parliamentary sitting prevented her attendance but sent best wishes. Lord Lieutenant Nigel Atkinson framed the unveiling as a celebration of memory and the Queen’s enduring legacy of service.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I was born when she was on the throne, and it has been only two or three years since her passing. I think we got used to her.” — Cllr Phil North
- “ Cllr Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: “I’m really looking forward to the statue unveiling and recognising her late majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s long service to her country and her connections to Romsey.” — Rev Thomas Warton
- “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.” — Artist Amy Goodman
What’s Next
The unveiling on September 4 will be followed by a blessing led by Rev Warton. Organizers plan to promote the statue as a permanent feature of Romsey’s cultural landscape, encouraging schools and community groups to incorporate it into local heritage programs.
