Vicar and Craftsmen Rally Behind Keith Flint's 'Devil Horns' Memorial Bench
A vicar and the creators of a memorial bench for The Prodigy's Keith Flint have united in defence of the inclusion of his iconic 'devil horns' haircut in the design. The tribute has recently been unveiled at St Mary's Church in Bocking, Essex, receiving warm welcomes from the band and Flint's family. Flint tragically passed away at the age of 49 on March 4, 2019.
Church Defends Controversial Design
The vicar of the church near Braintree, where the chart-topping dance band was formed, has staunchly defended the oak bench against suggestions that it might be inappropriate. He acknowledged that some concerns had been raised regarding a supposedly 'Satanic' detail inscribed into the monument, while its creators expressed initial surprise at the request. However, numerous worshippers and Prodigy fans alike have praised the new installation at the church where Flint was laid to rest following his funeral on March 28, 2019.
The horn shapes are directly inspired by Flint's signature 'bihawk' hairstyle, famously showcased in the video for The Prodigy's 1996 number one single, Firestarter. The woodworkers responsible for constructing the bench, who were approached by the band and sworn to secrecy, have described the 'Flinty Fins' as 'a bold nod to Keith’s unmistakable devil-horn silhouette'.
Creative Process and Band's Vision
They revealed to the Daily Mail how they blasted Firestarter during the bench's creation, a process that involved pouring petrol on it and setting it ablaze. This followed a specific request from the band for the bench to be 'jet black' and burnt, though it was given a varnish finish to eliminate any scorched scent. The makers also admitted to a sense of astonishment upon learning the bench was destined for a churchyard but insisted that Christians should 'see the humour in this'.
The Prodigy shared a heartfelt tribute to Flint, along with pictures of the bench, on social media last Wednesday, coinciding with what would have been his 57th birthday. The post, signed by band members Liam Howlett and Maxim, expressed that Flint was 'always with us on every stage and on every drop', adding: 'Miss u every day brother. Raise the roof!' They extended thanks to all who assisted in arranging the memorial bench, offering special praise to Powys, Wales-based woodworker and artist collective Free Range Designs for its construction.
Vicar's Perspective and Public Reaction
The church's vicar, the Rt Revd Rod Reid, has found himself defending the placement of a bench bearing 'devil horns' within a Christian churchyard. He told the BBC: 'The band and the family wanted something fitting for the churchyard. They were very respectful and very aware of the setting.' While online criticism has included remarks such as 'The church will accept anything nowadays', many more have embraced the tribute, with one post stating: 'What a wonderful tribute for everyone to enjoy. Just perfect.'
The church received positive feedback on its Facebook page in response to photos of the memorial, with one visitor noting: 'I have been to see it today, laid a flower and paid my respects. It's a beautiful bench and a fitting tribute to Keith.' Other commenters echoed sentiments like 'Great idea', 'Awesome', and 'It looks fabulous'.
Behind the Scenes with Free Range Designs
Paul Bullen, founder of Free Range Designs, detailed how they were secretly approached towards the end of last year by The Prodigy's manager, John Fairs. It took some time for his team of five to realise their latest commission was in memory of a famous individual and that the buyers were Flint's former bandmates. The creative process involved both 'fun' and 'frustration', particularly in achieving a design that honoured Flint's Firestarter performance.
Mr Bullen recounted being asked to ensure the bench was black and burnt, which he accomplished, only to then address concerns about potential odours. A query arose about a small section of wood that had not turned black, prompting him to pour petrol to ensure it ignited. He played The Prodigy's Firestarter during this act, as seen in a clip shared on YouTube by the company. Mr Bullen explained: 'The petrol burns quickly but doesn't actually burn the wood - it was just theatrics. I sent them a video, saying: "Is this burnt enough for you?" I think they were humoured. It was in keeping with Keith's energy.'
He acknowledged the controversy surrounding the 'devil horns' and the bench's location, adding: 'When told it was going to be in a church, I was kind of surprised - "How are you going to manage to do that?" But then I got to thinking about the church, thinking about Jesus, all of us being God's sons or daughters or children including Keith, even mischievous Keith. If you believe in Christianity, you can see the humour in this.'
Personal Tributes and Lasting Legacy
Mr Bullen also paid personal tribute to how The Prodigy had been a 'formative' sound during his teenage years. The 48-year-old South African-born artist reflected: 'Making this bench, I reflected on how many times I've listened to the Prodigy - when 16, or 19, in a car or at a party. They've been formative in my and all my friends' lives.' Free Range Designs posted on its website: 'The vision for the bench was to create something striking, unique, and evocative of Keith and his unforgettable, electric character.'
They co-created the design with John Fairs and Prodigy founder Liam Howlett, refining it until the band and family members were satisfied. The team was sworn to secrecy until the band announced the news on social media. While the creation process was enjoyable, it was also emotional, as they remembered someone who 'reshaped a generation of music'.
Remembering Keith Flint
Flint died at his home in the Essex hamlet of North End by hanging, with cocaine, alcohol, and codeine in his system at the time, as revealed in an inquest in May 2019. Essex Senior Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray recorded an open conclusion, stating: 'We will never quite know what was going on in his mind on that date.' Music fans travelled from as far as Australia to gather outside St Mary's Church for Flint's funeral, with festival flags and floral tributes, including one of the band's ant logo, adorning the churchyard.
The coroner added: 'He clearly was extremely popular, he was much loved by so many fans. It's been very touching to see that, and of course I'm aware of the funeral service that was held in Bocking.' She expressed the court's sympathy to his family and the band manager. Ahead of the inquest, The Prodigy urged followers on Twitter to seek help if struggling with mental health, writing: 'It has been a tough time for everyone over the last few weeks since Keef's passing. If you are struggling with depression, addiction or the impact of suicide, please do not suffer in silence. The Prodigy fully support the campaign to improve mental health for all.'
Flint's bandmate Liam Howlett first confirmed the death on Instagram, expressing shock and heartbreak. Flint, born in Redbridge, London, moved to Braintree, Essex, after school and met Howlett in a nightclub. Originally the band's dancer, Flint's role as vocalist propelled The Prodigy to sell 30 million records. The group paid an emotional tribute to Flint during their set at the 2024 Glastonbury Festival, having cancelled their 2019 appearance after his death. Vocalist Maxim told the crowd: 'This is the fourth time we have played this festival. There are supposed to be five of us, but six years ago, we lost our brother. This show tonight is dedicated to Mr F***ing Flint. This is his night!'
