A cherished tribute to Gizmo, a beloved cat from Minehead, has been inaugurated, marking nine months since his passing. Known for his ginger and white fur, Gizmo was a familiar sight around town, even boasting over 1,400 followers on his dedicated Facebook page.
Funding the Statue Through Community Support
Angela Chilcott, Gizmo’s owner, gathered more than £800 through a GoFundMe campaign initiated by local resident Stuart Thomas. The fundraising effort arose from the affection many felt for Gizmo, who frequently visited various establishments, bringing joy to local residents.
Location Challenges and Final Decision
Initially, the Minehead Town Council denied permission for the statue to be placed in the Queen Elizabeth II Rose Garden. Following this setback, Ms. Chilcott sought alternative sites, ultimately choosing A2B Removals and Storage on Mart Road industrial estate. This location held significance, as it was one of Gizmo’s frequent stopovers.
Community Celebration and Unveiling
The statue, crafted to life-size proportions, stands as a focal point for Gizmo’s admirers. “I have put up a statue so everybody who loved Gizmo can visit and pay their respects,” stated Ms. Chilcott. Local council member Cara Strom, along with Cllr Marcus Kravis, was present for the unveiling, celebrating the community’s affection for Gizmo.
Gizmo’s Impact on Minehead
Over nearly a decade, Gizmo was known to roam in and out of various businesses throughout Minehead, including the popular Butlin’s holiday resort. One of his favorite haunts was Lidl, where he was honored with a unique ‘metalhead’ sculpture created from scrap metal by artist Steven Heard.
- The statue is life-size and reflects Gizmo’s playful spirit.
- The community involvement illustrates the bond between residents and Gizmo.
- Proceeds from a ‘Gizmo calendar’ previously supported the Cats Protection charity.
This life-size statue ensures that Gizmo’s memory continues to thrive within the hearts of those in Minehead, allowing visitors to reminisce and honor the joyful feline who touched so many lives.
