It’s part of the city’s family

Feb 20 2008 by David Bartlett, Liverpool Daily Post

ACTOR and comedian Ricky Tom- linson last night pledged his sup- port to the Daily Post’s campaign to save the Superlambanana.

The Daily Post launched its bid to keep the 17ft-tall sculpture in the city on Saturday after we revealed that it could be sold – possibly even to Manchester.

Hundreds of people have taken part in our online poll which reveals 85% of readers agree that the Superlambanana should be saved. Francis McEntegart, who represents Japanese artist Taro Chiezo, who created the Superlambanana, said his client was not looking for “anything crazy” – only a fair price for the sculpture.

He has written to the Culture Company to offer the city the chance to buy the sculpture when a 10-year loan deal ends this year.

Last night, Royle Family star Tomlinson said: “It’s great, it’s part of the city and it’s part of the landmark and kids love to play around it. The Superlambanana is part of the family now, what would be the point in moving it?”

Liverpool Garston MP and justice minister Maria Eagle said: “Superlambanana has been adopted by the people of Liverpool and has got to stay.

“It’s a wonderful piece of art that has really captured the public’s imagination.

“Indeed, during Capital of Culture year, I’d like it to visit my constituency in Garston where it was made in the former Bryant & May Matchworks.”

Liverpool council Labour leader Joe Anderson said: “When it first arrived, like everybody else I had mixed feelings about it, but now it is part of Liverpool.

“I think we should do all we can to keep it, because it’s now a fond iconic feature of the city and a permanent home should be found for it.”

davidbartlett