A new statue was this week unveiled of JM Barrie’s Neverland hero at the entrance to the Garden Wise garden centre on Castle Douglas road. It replaces an original wood carving which was destroyed in a storm earlier this year. The People’s Project commissioned Moffat chainsaw carver Peter Bowsher to create the new 11 foot statue, which is made out of red cedar and depicts a flying Peter watched by Captain Hook.
And it was revealed at a ceremony on Monday afternoon, with Cathy Agnew, of Moat Brae, doing the honours, helped by nine-year-old Skye Ross.
People’s Project chairman Mark Jardine is delighted it’s back in place and said: “The old one blew down and was completely wrecked. “Just his two feet were left, like he had flown away. He’s decided to come back to his birthplace now.” He added: “Hopefully it will be a talking point and something that will bring people to the region.”
Cathy is also thrilled to see the new carving in situ and said: “This is fantastic, it reinforces the message about Dumfries being the birthplace of Peter Pan. “The more we can work in partnership with other businesses it’s really important for the town.”
Meanwhile, carver Peter says his latest piece should have a lifespan of 30-40 years, describing it as ‘brilliant’.
