Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden returned to her hometown of Caerphilly on Saturday, July 11, to unveil a miniature statue of herself as part of a park regeneration project. The figurine, which depicts Dowden in a tango pose, is the centrepiece of the Town Relief Map at Dafydd Williams Park, created by artist Sebastien Boyesen, known for Abertillery's 'Guardian' sculpture.
Park Regeneration and Art Installation
The park has undergone extensive improvements over several months, including upgraded street lighting, new play equipment, and freshly installed seating areas. The Town Relief Map is a physical depiction of Caerphilly featuring miniature figures representing the town's cultural heritage, with Dowden's statue as a key attraction.
Dowden expressed her pride and surprise at being included: "It is so lovely to be back in my hometown of Caerphilly which will always be home to me. I'm revealing the new relief town map which I am so proud to be part of. There's a little statue of me, along with many other inspiring famous faces and, do you know what, it just feels really surreal that I'm part of that and it's such an honour for me. My statue is really, really lovely, I'm in a tango position and it's just surreal."
Community Celebration and Personal Reflections
The unveiling event featured live music, performances from Shappelle's Dance School where Dowden began her dance journey, and support from local businesses. Dowden recalled childhood memories: "I remember visiting as a child and I have so many happy memories here with family and friends and it is really special to be back. I literally started dancing in what used to be a hall just up that lane, and I'd always feed the ducks here with my grandfather who lived right opposite."
She praised the park's transformation: "Seeing the park transformed is absolutely fantastic; it's brighter, more welcoming and more accessible and it's wonderful to see the investment in a space that means so much to so many people. I hope it will become somewhere that future generations can enjoy and make memories of their own."
Trail of Tales and Local Support
Alongside the statue unveiling, the Made in Caerphilly Trail of Tales was introduced, a virtual town tour using characters from Caerphilly's past and present. Shop fronts are decorated to showcase celebrated figures, with Dowden's image displayed on florist Nicola Downie's premises. Nicola said: "I'm so excited to be a part of Caerphilly's Trail of Tales, it is such a brilliant way to celebrate not only Caerphilly and what we have to offer, but also to improve the look and feel of the town for our regulars and visitors. When I found out Amy was one of the characters involved, I just knew her face had to be on my shop. I've planned a special floral arrangement to welcome Amy back home."
The Ffos Caerphilly gates opened onto the park for visitors to enjoy the enhanced green space. Local guides provided three complimentary guided tours following the Trail of Tales / Hynt a Hanes during the day.
