L-R: Statue, Dame Cleo Laine, Emily Dankworth, Charlie Wood, Jacqui Dankworth, Alec Dankworth, John Horler

A new statue of Sir John Dankworth, commissioned by the Wavendon Allmusic Foundation, outside the main entrance to The Stables was unveiled today. The statue is by sculptor David Annand whose studio is at Cupar in Fife in Scotland. It will, according to the press statement, “serve as a permanent reminder, not only of his outstanding career, but also of his commitment to charitable causes”.

The characteristic pose of John as bandleader with his finger raised to bring in a soloist has been slightly adapted, with the finger pointing towards the entrance. It appears to beckon people into the building. The statue is set to become a popular landmark, with any of the people attending today’s opening having their pictures taken alongside it.