Artist's stones unveiled outside council HQ

Four Robert Kiddey sculptures have been refurbished and unveiled outside Castle House in Newark.

The Kiddey Stones, made of four large sandstone panels, were originally installed at Wilford Power Station in Nottinghamshire but have been in storage since the 1980s.

The stones, designed by the Nottingham-born sculptor, depict different aspects of electricity production.

Deputy leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, Rowan Cozens, said the unveiling of the stones was a "very exciting" moment and added it was "vitally important" Kiddey's influence was celebrated.

The council said the stones were put on display as part of the launch of two art trails in the town.

One celebrates Kiddey, while the other shows objects that have contributed to the history of the area.

After the power station was demolished in the 1980s, the stones were moved to Newark Cemetery, where they have been kept out of public view until now.

Prof Veronica Pickering, His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire, said: "It is so important that we're able to mark this moment and acknowledge and celebrate the work of Robert Kiddey, and celebrate the vision and craft of Robert Kiddey here in his hometown and his county."

Kiddey, who moved to Newark in 1931 and taught for 50 years, attained international recognition during his career.

Some of his artworks were exhibited alongside work by Pablo Picasso.

In December, the district council's cabinet voted to install the artwork outside its headquarters at an estimated cost of £87,430, as part of the new Kiddey Trail of nine sites to visit to see his work.

A consultation revealed more than 57% of respondents rejected the idea, with respondents saying they were a "waste of money" or "morally wrong", while others supported the plan's historic significance.

Cozens previously said: "I am aware that there are mixed feelings about this project."

Speaking at the unveiling, she said: "It's part of our community plan to get our art out into the public realm.

"Newark is incredibly rich in its culture, its history, and it's full of artists and sculptors."

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