Gazing up at this powerful figure, one might wonder about the story behind the Guy the Gorilla Statue. Here in Crystal Palace Park, beside the Lower Lake, stands a tribute to a remarkable creature. Guy the Gorilla, a western lowland gorilla, captivated Londoners for decades. This statue, sculpted by David Wynne in 1961 from polished black marble, immortalizes Guy’s presence. Guy arrived at the London Zoo in 1947, on Guy Fawkes Day, hence his name. He quickly became a beloved attraction, known for his gentle nature. Children would visit Guy at the zoo, fascinated by his size and demeanor. David Wynne, a zoology student turned sculptor, captured Guy’s essence perfectly. The statue depicts Guy standing on all fours. The artist aimed to convey the gorilla’s power. The sculpture is remarkably interactive. Children still climb and pat the statue. Guy’s legacy extends beyond this park. A bronze statue by William Timym resides at the London Zoo. Guy’s taxidermied remains are displayed at the Natural History Museum. These tributes ensure that Guy’s gentle giant spirit lives on. The Guy the Gorilla Statue serves as a reminder of a unique animal who touched countless lives.
Southfields Methodist Church
Curiosity stirred within the heart of Southfields as a new chapter began. Southfields Methodist Church held its first public service