Crowborough should have £50,000 Sherlock Holmes statue, says enthusiast

A SIR Arthur Conan Doyle enthusiast wants townsfolk to dip into their pockets and find £50,000 for a statue of Sherlock Holmes in Crowborough, the home of the author.

Crowborough historian Michael Tuffley was quoted this sum to create a memorial to the world's most famous detective by renowned sculptor Carl Payne.

Payne is currently creating a statue of British boxing legend and former Hildenborough resident Sir Henry Cooper which, when completed, is set to be located in London.

Mr Tuffley, from Montargis Way, insists Crowborough should maximise Holmes's re-emergence into popular culture, following a hugely successful television series and two blockbuster films.

He is now calling on residents to donate the cash that he believes would help raise the profile of Crowborough.

"It would bring Crowborough, Sussex and Great Britain up another notch – millions and millions of people are attracted to Sherlock Holmes statues," Mr Tuffley said.

"To have one in Crowborough, the home of the author, would be great for the town."

Conan Doyle lived at Windlesham Manor, near Crowborough Beacon Golf Club, for 23 years until his death in 1930 and a statue of him, which cost £48,000, stands outside the Crowborough Cross.

Boxing coach Mr Tuffley is keen to get the town behind the idea of a Holmes statue in the piazza in The Broadway, and is looking for sponsors.

"To have a statue erected would attract worldwide attention and it could be complemented by souvenir shops," he said.

"We want people who are interested in seeing a statue of Sherlock Holmes, to be constructed in full, to show their support.

"I'd like fans of Conan Doyle's literature to come forward and let's discuss further what contributions or sponsorship could go towards this cause, as I firmly believe it would put Crowborough on the map."

But town councillor George Moss said he felt the money may be best spent elsewhere. He said: "I don't want to put the guy down but we have Conan Doyle on the cross. So £50,000 for another statue on the piazza, I would think there's more worthy things the money could be spent on."