A towering golden Roman gladiator statue that locals affectionately call 'Golden Balls' has made a triumphant return to its Wigan home after being removed three years ago following complaints about its nudity.
The Controversial Comeback
The 20-foot gold statue, originally used to promote Russell Crowe's 2000 epic film Gladiator, was reinstated earlier this week at Bulldog Forge in Ince, Wigan, Greater Manchester. The statue's removal in October 2022 had sparked outrage among local residents, who launched Facebook campaigns and petitions demanding its restoration.
Grant Adamson, the 60-year-old owner of the vintage shop where the statue stands, confirmed the statue's return after three years in storage. He explained his decision was motivated by wanting to bring "Christmas cheer" to the community during what has been a difficult year for many.
Community Reaction and Campaign
Local residents expressed overwhelming joy at the statue's return through social media. One enthusiastic supporter wrote: "YESSSSSSSS FINALLY GOLDEN BALLS IS HOME LOL", while another humorously noted: "We just drove past... he must be cold." The statue had clearly become a beloved local landmark during its previous six-month display.
Grant revealed that the statue had only been displayed for approximately six months before Wigan Council ordered its removal. The council had received multiple complaints about the statue's nudity and informed Grant that he needed planning permission for its installation.
Planning Permission Dispute
Although Grant complied with the council's demands and placed the statue in storage, he maintained that planning permission shouldn't be necessary. He argued that since the statue stands on his private land, is mobile, and doesn't extend beyond his property boundaries, it shouldn't require formal consent. However, he respected the council's decision and removed the controversial figure.
The statue has travelled around the North West in recent years, previously standing outside Titan Flooring Specialists on the Landgate Industrial Estate in 2017 and more recently appearing at Leisure Lakes campsite in the Mere Brow area of Preston during the summer months.
Limited Time Display
The statue's return coincides with an open day at CJS Heritage Engineering at Grant's Bulldog Forge on Saturday, November 29. However, residents should enjoy the golden gladiator while they can - Wigan Council has only granted permission for a temporary display, meaning the statue won't be a permanent fixture.
Grant expressed his hope that the statue might eventually become a permanent feature, stating: "If people don't like it, then so be it, it won't be up forever, but a lot of people do. But I'd love to keep him up, as it belongs to the shop and the site."
A spokesperson for Wigan Council confirmed they are aware of the statue's return and are "assessing whether any consent is needed from the council." They noted that on the previous occasion, the council had advised the landowner that the statue required advertising consent before it was voluntarily removed.
