OUTRAGE has erupted over a new statue to controversial Victorian explorer HM Stanley, with critics stating it resembles a giant marital aid and would not be out-of-place outside an Ann Summers shop.
Last week the Bishop of St Asaph launched a stinging criticism of the £18,000 obelisk, unveiled in the shadow of his cathedral, saying there were others more deserved of recognition.
Former St Asaph councillor John Smith said the obelisk had been likened to a ‘tin can’.
Fellow resident Pamela Ledsham said: “I could not believe my eyes... I thought some circus clown had left his pantomime prop on the kerbside.
Now parishioners have joined the debate posting damning comments on the Free Press website.
A furious Annieliz wrote: “Congratulations St Asaph city council you have succeeded in making St Asaph a laughing stock.
“Not one person I have spoken to is one of the "widely consulted" so who are they?
“This monstrosity would not be out of place outside an Ann Summers store.”
Xena215 posted: “If the obelisk was commissioned after 'wide consultation' with the people of St Asaph; why is it so difficult to find anyone who was consulted?
“Not everyone wants to look at this monstrosity day after day - it would be more appropriate and tasteful for a simple plaque to be placed at HM Stanley Hospital instead of an ugly, phallic symbol positioned next to the local church.”
RedDragon added: “Apart from the cheap tacky silver paint look of the memorial, the position of it is ridiculous and a serious accident near the pedestrian crossing is waiting to happen because you can't help but look and frown every time you drive past. I haven’t spoken to a single person who likes it.”
Another poster Auntiemint said: “It's an appalling waste of money, for something that looks like a massive marital aid sat at the side of the road!
“What an image to present to visitors to St Asaph.
“Surely the money would have been better spent on supporting St Kentigern Hospice, which would be of benefit to the local community and been more relevant, as the workhouse in which HM Stanley spent his formative years is on the same site.”
The obelisk was formally unveiled two weeks ago.
Former St Asaph mayor, Elsie Powell, a member of the group which commissioned the work, said she was pleased with the obelisk.
Current St Asaph Mayor Andrew Thomas added: "There are many people who deserve recognition who are from St Asaph, but this statue was brought about by a group who wanted to commemorate Stanley... he did many great things for people and the Congo.”