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Dame Kelly Holmes unveils new statue in Tonbridge

15:34, 10 October 2017

updated: 18:54, 30 October 2022

A top Kent sports star has unveiled a new sculpture of herself close to where she grew up.

Dame Kelly Holmes showed off the artwork, which was created by artist Guy Portelli, earlier this afternoon.

VIDEO: Kelly was shown the new statue in Tonbridge

The sportswoman, who comes from Hildenborough, Tonbridge, is a double-Olympic champion and used to compete in the 800 metres and 1,500 metres sprint.

Dame Kelly Holmes has revealed her sculpture
Dame Kelly Holmes has revealed her sculpture

Businesses have joined together to create the unique welcome to the town.

It depicts a silhouette with a medal, with sleeves attached to the statue.

The sculpture has been positioned in what was a disused planter which has recently been cleared of shrubs and weeds.

The centrepiece has been decorated by children from the area.

This is not the first statue there has been of Dame Kelly Holmes.

Dame Kelly Homes unveiling the sculpture of herself made by artist Guy Portelli Quarry Hill Road, Tonbridge. Picture: Gary Browne
Dame Kelly Homes unveiling the sculpture of herself made by artist Guy Portelli Quarry Hill Road, Tonbridge. Picture: Gary Browne

A life-size bronze sculpture was unveiled in 2012.

According to the Metro the leader of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council at the time, Nicholas Heslop, said: "It doesn't look like Dame Kelly - it looks more like Jessica Ennis."

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