Darwin sculpture is finally unveiled to public

The piece of art and a Darwin Memorial Garden in Mardol Quay have been created to celebrate Charles Darwin and to mark the 200th anniversary of his birth.

The sculpture has slowly been unveiled over the past couple of days as a frame surrounding it has been taken down.

Shropshire Council bosses said workmen using a crane were pulling the final part of the frame down at lunchtime today after pulling down two other parts earlier.

Rian Huxley, a spokeswoman for the council, said: "Residents will be able to see the structure in its entirety.

"Once the GeoGarden is completed later this month, Shropshire Council will be hosting an opening ceremony for the entire project."

It was thought the project to create Quantum Leap and the Darwin Memorial Garden in Mardol Quay would cost £350,000.

The council's cabinet approved a budget increase of £100,000.

The council will have scope to spend up to £483,090 although George Candler, from Shropshire Council, has said only £450,000 was expected to be spent. It has been criticised, with some councillors at the weekend hitting out at the look of it and its cost.

Randal Keynes, the great, great grandson of the scientist, will formally dedicate the 12-metre high statue on October 8.

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