Northern Ireland

Political support for statue of guitarist Gary Moore in his native Belfast

Gary Moore anjoyed a spectacular career with bands such as Skid Row, Thin Lizzy and G-Force, as well as a successful solo career. Picture by Ian West/PA Wire
Gary Moore anjoyed a spectacular career with bands such as Skid Row, Thin Lizzy and G-Force, as well as a successful solo career. Picture by Ian West/PA Wire Gary Moore anjoyed a spectacular career with bands such as Skid Row, Thin Lizzy and G-Force, as well as a successful solo career. Picture by Ian West/PA Wire

A CAMPAIGN to erect a statue of Gary Moore in the guitar legend's native Belfast has received crucial backing on the tenth anniversary of his death.

The Wild Frontier Memorial Project, led by members of Moore's family and fans, welcomed support from Green and Alliance parties on the city council following initial discussions about the plan.

Fans have raised almost £5,000 for the statue project, but, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, fund-raising tribute gigs in Belfast and Dublin had to be shelved last year.

It is hoped that a statue recognising the virtuoso guitarist will be a feature of Belfast's plans for a major cultural celebration in 2023.

The city had hoped to be recognised as a UNESCO European City of Music by 2023, but the European Commission has ruled UK cities can no longer bid for the title.

It is understood that councillors are now instead planning a major cultural attraction for 2023, which Moore's youngest sister Patricia said would make a statue of "Belfast’s greatest guitarist... a perfect fit".

The village of Skånevik in Norway erected a statue of Gary Moore in recognition of his contribution to music and the village's annual Blues Festival.

The Wild Frontier Memorial Project was formed in 2018 its proposed statue is expected to cost around €75,000.

Ms Moore, co-founder of campaign, said: "Belfast is steeped in musical history and has produced its fair share of legendary figures, and songs.

"I know Gary is an idol to many people all over Ireland, and all over the world. He loved his city and although his career would take him everywhere, his music was always influenced by the nature and beauty of Belfast, and indeed all of Ireland.

"Gary was very, very proud to be from Belfast, he loved to tell people that was his home."

The east Belfast musician enjoyed a spectacular career with bands such as Skid Row, Thin Lizzy and G-Force, as well as a successful solo career which saw him switched effortlessly from heavy rock to Blues.

Among his collaborators were BB King and Albert King, Peter Green, Jack Bruce and Eric Clapton.

He died on February 6, 2011 after suffering a heart attack in his sleep, aged just 58.

Green Party councillor Brian Smyth said he "welcome(s) the moves being made by his family to build a

business case to have a statue put up in the city of birth, Belfast".

"Gary was one of the greatest musical sons this city has produced and has left a lasting legacy not only in Belfast, but across the planet.

"This is also a timely reminder of how important music is and how we value our musicians, when there is a real challenge to the Arts Sector in Northern Ireland."