‘Melt it and start again’: Some people aren’t thrilled with this new statue of the late Queen [Video]

THE COUNCIL HAS defended a new statue commemorating Queen Elizabeth II after some online critics questioned its likeness to the late British monarch.

The bronze sculpture, created by artist Anto Brennan, has received mixed reviews from members of the public since it was unveiled in Antrim Castle Gardens in Northern Ireland last Friday.

It was commissioned by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and is said to “capture Her Majesty in a dignified pose, reflecting her grace, steadfastness and lifelong dedication to public service”.

In response to the attention generated by the statue, the council acknowledged that art can prompt “diverse opinions” but said it was “delighted” with the “generally positive” response.

The council insisted that social media “may amplify certain negative viewpoints”.

The sculpture stands adjacent to a statue of Queen Elizabeth’s late husband, Prince Philip, which was created by the same artist, and also features two of their many …