Skegness Magazine

May 1989

Statue is a dream come true

A 17-YEAR-OLD dream for Mayor of Skegness, Coun. Harold Fainlight, finally came true in May 1989 with the unveiling of the town’s new Jolly Fisherman statue.
First produced by John Hassall for a Great Eastern Railways poster 80 years ago, the E20,000 bronze replica of the dancing fisherman is the work of Yorkshire sculptor Mr Ron Walker.
Local dignitaries and holidaymakers gathered in the sunshine in Skegness’ Compass Gardens to catch the first glimpse of the famous figure.
The concrete plinth on which the statue stands carries the names of people and organisations who donated money to the appeal.
Before the grand unveiling Coun. Fainlight explained his long association with the statue.
He said: “This has been a dream of mine for 17 years and it’s really for the children who frequently ask me who is, what is and where is the Jolly Fisherman.
“John Hassall could possibly have seen such a figure on a visit to the town and the Jolly Fisherman is now one of the oldest emblems in the world.”
Although Coun. Fainlight warned the gathered crowd that the statue might not resemble exactly the famous caricatured figure, most expressed their approval once its blue covering was removed.
And Coun. Fainlight added: “The figure is not grinning but he does have a twinkle in his eye and he’s a lively character – history and posterity will tell us if people don’t like it.”
A permanent home for the statue still has to be found, but once one has been agreed on, three time capsules to be opened at 25 year intervals, will be set in the plinth.