THE clay model of the statue of Blind Jack, which is being sculpted in the former premises of Bolero in the Market Place is nearing completion.
Sculptress Barbara Asquith has been opening the doors of her studio to onlookers, who have been following the statue’s progress.

Blind Jack is Barbara’s first public sculpture, although she has done statues for gardens before.

Barbara said: “This is very challenging. Five years ago I went to speak to Knaresborough Town Council about the possibility of the town having a sculpture to commemorate Blind Jack. I couldn’t believe there was nothing in town to commemorate him and am really happy this has come off.”

Blind Jack was a renowned road and bridge builder.

The clay model should be finished for the start of feva.

The following week two men from Shropshire are coming to Knaresborough to make a mould of the model, which will take two days. The statue will then be cast in bronze .

The bench, funded by Harrogate Borough Council, was made in Swansea. It will be going to the foundry with Blind Jack and he will be attached to it.

Barbara said: “I wanted local people to see the work in progress and be a part of it, as they have contributed to the fundraising. I hope they will find it fun to sit by the statue. Knaresborough is a fun market town.”

A Blind Jack Statue Appeal has raised, to date, more than £24,000 towards the £30,000 needed for the statue.

l Barbara’s studio is open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 11am-3pm.