Cardiff Council has thrown its support behind a plan to build a statue in honour of Cardiff City‘s legendary FA Cup winning captain Fred Keenor.
Keenor famously lifted the cup at Wembley Stadium in 1927 after the Bluebirds beat Arsenal 1-0 to become the only team outside of England to win the coveted trophy.
The Supporters’ Trust Fred Keenor Statue Campaign committee has launched an appeal to raise money to have the statue made and Cardiff Council is pledging £15,000 towards the project.
Councillor Nigel Howells, Executive member for Sport Leisure & Culture, said: “Fred Keenor is an iconic figure for this city and the image of him lifting the cup is one that is very special for the people of Cardiff.
“I think it is right and proper that we have a statue immortalising Fred and the achievements of the Bluebirds on that very special day back in 1927.
“Fred Keenor was also a prominent Welsh International, winning 32 caps for his country and I am delighted that Cardiff Council is able to contribute towards the building of this statue.”
Llantwit Major-based artist Roger Andrews has won the contract to build the Fred Keenor tribute following a poll organised by the Supporters’ Trust.
The statue’s location has yet to be finalised but the most likely site remains in the grounds of the Cardiff City Stadium.
David Craig, from the Fred Keenor Statue Campaign committee, said: “This is obviously wonderful news because it is the first clear offer of financial support for the campaign and a great boost for us. It’s early days and this is a spark for our fundraising efforts. This is very much appreciated and we are grateful to the Council for their offer.”
Tim Hartley, acting chair of Cardiff City Supporters’ Trust, which has already pledged a £1,000 contribution to the Fred Keenor statue campaign, said: “We’re delighted that Cardiff Council is putting its financial support behind our campaign to honour a true Cardiff legend. We now hope to see the Welsh Assembly Government and businesses across Wales, as well as individuals, follow the council’s lead.”
