Late Queen 'reunited' with Prince Philip as new statue is unveiled in the Castle Gardens

ON Friday a bronze statue of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was unveiled in Antrim Castle Gardens.

The ceremony was conducted by the Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell KStJ and Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM.

The sculpture is one of the first of its kind in the UK, created to commemorate Her Late Majesty who passed away two years ago this week.

Commissioned by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the statue, created by local artist Anto Brennan, captures Her Majesty in a dignified pose, reflecting ‘her grace, steadfastness and lifelong dedication to public service’.

The sculpture fittingly stands adjacent to the statue of her beloved husband, Prince Philip, highlighting their united presence throughout their remarkable lives.

To complete the scene, the royal couple is joined by two of the more than 30 dogs that Her Majesty owned during her lifetime.

Queen Elizabeth II, who was the born on 21 April 1926, was the longest-reigning British monarch, serving for over 70 years.

As a leader, she provided a source of strength, inspiration, and unity during times of conflict, grief, and uncertainty.

Her legacy is further marked by her deep devotion to public service and her close personal connection with the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.

The first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, Queen Elizabeth II is remembered not only as a sovereign but also as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr. David McCorkell KStJ, who was appointed as Her Majesty’s Personal Representative for the County in 2019, expressed his honour at being present for the unveiling of the statue.

“Queen Elizabeth II will forever be remembered for a life dedicated to duty and for her sustained and selfless service, stretching over 70 years,” he said.

“Seeing these statues alongside each other today, not only protects that bond and makes sure that her legacy as our longest ever reigning monarch lives on, and will be remembered by future generations, but it also reminds us of the bond between her and her Consort, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.

“It remains my greatest privilege to have been Her Majesty’s humble servant. May she rest in peace."

Mayor Neil Kelly, expressed his pride in the Council’s efforts to honour Her Majesty’s memory.

“The unveiling of this beautiful statue is a tribute not only to Her Majesty’s extraordinary life and reign but also to her deep connection with the people of our Borough. This memorial will stand as a lasting reminder of her dedication to service, her resilience, and her ability to unite people across generations.”

Deputy Mayor Paul Dunlop added: “Although her life was devoted to public service, Queen Elizabeth was perhaps happiest when enjoying outdoor life, particularly walking in the countryside and spending time with her dogs. It is therefore very fitting that we are unveiling a bronze sculpture in her memory here in the beautiful surroundings of Antrim Castle Gardens, close to the clockwork garden opened in 2022 to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee.”