Lemmy statue unveiling to take place in Burslem

Stoke-on-Trent is set to honour one of its most iconic sons as the Lemmy Forever Stoke-on-Trent Ceremony takes place in Burslem on Friday, 9 May.

The centerpiece of the celebrations will be the unveiling of a statue to commemorate Motörhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister.

The musician – once described as having ‘one of the most recognizable voices in rock’1 – was born Ian Fraser Kilminster in Burslem. He joined the band Hawkwind in 1971, before forming Motörhead in 1975.

The statue has been crafted by acclaimed local sculptor and lifelong Motörhead fan Andy Edwards – best-known for his statue of the Beatles on Liverpool’s Pier Head - captures Lemmy in his iconic pose with his bass guitar.

Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell will be in attendance and the event will include the official placement of Lemmy’s ashes inside the statue.

The ceremony begins at 4pm in Burslem town centre, but fans are encouraged to arrive early and soak up the atmosphere. Local venues including the Old Post Office Bar and Ale House and Market Place Café will be offering themed refreshments, including a special Motörhead Roast of the Day.

Other events will include:

• A biker corteo to accompany Lemmy’s ashes
• A series of guest speakers
• A rousing 21-rev salute in Lemmy’s honour
• The grand unveiling of the statue in Burslem Market Place

Barewall Art Gallery in Burslem will also feature a special installation of rarely seen photographs and memorabilia celebrating Lemmy’s life and legacy.

Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Stoke-on-Trent has produced many famous faces over the years and what better way to honour one of our own than by installing a statue in the town where they were born – and in our Centenary year as well.

“We are looking forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world for the unveiling.”

Approximately 100-metres of Market Place - behind the Town Hall building and the corner of New Street in front of Barewall Art Gallery - will be closed on Friday and parking bays along the stretch will also be suspended for the entire day.

Parking will be available at Port Vale Football Club, a seven-minute walk away.

Motorists travelling to and from Burslem on the day are reminded to plan extra time for their journey, or find an alternative route.

Delays are expected to affect Scotia Road, Swan Square, Waterloo Road, Moorland Road, Newcastle Road and Hamil Road between 3pm and 7pm.