Monty Python’s Terry Jones is set to be honoured with a statue in his hometown of Colwyn Bay, as friends and celebrities come together to support the fundraising efforts. Sir Michael Palin and Terry Gilliam have launched a £120,000 campaign to create a bronze memorial of their late colleague. The proposed statue, to be situated on the town’s promenade, will depict Jones as a nude organist, a nod to his iconic Monty Python sketches.
High-profile personalities such as Cerys Matthews, Steve Coogan, Jo Brand, and Emma Thompson, among others, are backing the initiative. Terry’s children, Sally Jones and Bill Jones, will aid in the fundraising alongside Conwy Arts Trust, a local charity supporting the arts scene in North Wales. Colwyn Bay’s Mayor and Conwy County Borough Council have also expressed their support for the tribute to Jones, who was born in Colwyn Bay and maintained strong ties to the town throughout his life.
During a fundraising event, Sir Michael Palin reflected on Terry Jones’ Welsh heritage and how it influenced his work. Fellow Python member Terry Gilliam emphasised the importance of humour, stating, “We’re planting the seeds of humour wherever we can around the world to keep people from being miserable and serious and pompous.” Emma Thompson and Jo Brand shared fond memories of the comedic genius, emphasising Jones’ impact on their lives.
Other celebrities, including Alex Horne, Steve Coogan, and Steven Isserlis, expressed admiration for Jones and highlighted the significance of immortalising his legacy with the statue. The remaining Monty Python members, including Eric Idle and John Cleese, are rallying support for the campaign, with Cleese expressing delight at Jones being “immortalized in bronze”.
Local artist Nick Elphick will sculpt the statue, receiving enthusiastic support from Conwy County Borough Council and the Mayor of Colwyn Bay. Authorities laud Jones’ connection to Colwyn Bay and Theatr Colwyn, where he served as a patron. Community leaders, including Cllr Aaron Wynne and Sarah Ecob, endorse the tribute as a fitting homage to Jones’ contributions.
The heartfelt campaign has garnered widespread support, with fans and colleagues alike celebrating Terry Jones’ comedic prowess and his enduring impact. The statue serves as a poignant reminder of Jones’ legacy and his significant influence on comedy and the arts.