A leading galvanizing company's expertise has helped turn a car destined for the scrap-yard into the eye-catching centrepiece of a council's anniversary celebrations.

Sawtry-based East Anglian Galvanizing, part of Wedge Group Galvanizing, galvanized steel recycled from an old Vauxhall Frontera, which has now been used to create four sculptures to mark Dunstable Town Council’s 25th anniversary.

The Council commissioned hometown artist Nicola Dailey to produce the series of sculptures to commemorate the occasion, and following a number of interactive workshops with residents, she came up with four pieces based on themes that local people felt best summed up the town – its Watling Street Roman heritage, the Priory Church, and gliding on Dunstable Downs, whilst local youngsters identified Dunstable with BMX biking and skateboarding.


The artworks, which have been backed by a £3,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund’s Awards for All initiative, will be permanently installed on four concrete plinths in Grove House Gardens as a permanent reminder of the celebrations.

"It's been an absolute pleasure to be so closely involved with the local council's 25-year anniversary celebrations. The local community came up with some fantastic initial models, and I'm really pleased with each of the final four pieces," Nicola Dailey said. "Having the steelwork galvanized will make sure each of the sculptures is protected against rust and corrosion when they are installed at Grove House Gardens."

Selwyn Parish, Commercial Manager for East Anglian Galvanizing, commented: "Nicola has done a simply sensational job in turning the steelwork from the old car into such an innovative tribute to Dunstable's heritage and history. I'm sure the final four sculptures will bring great enjoyment and pleasure to local residents for years to come."

The sculptures were officially unveiled at the Council's Party in the Park 2011 event on 16th July.

Wedge Group Galvanizing is the largest hot dip galvanizing organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years. With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, they offer a truly national galvanizing service.

For further information please contact Wedge Group Galvanizing on 01902 630311 or visit www.wedge-galv.co.uk.

(CD/KMcA)