Statue stands proud

"The statue is absolutely incredible," said Mrs Clough. "Brian would have been amazed by the very idea of a statue. The Nottingham supporters took him to their hearts and there was a bond between them, and that shows today." More than five-thousand people gathered to watch the unveiling. It was also featured on live television and radio broadcasts as well as in local and national newspapers.

Thousands gathered to watch

There was loud applause and cheers and then the crowd chanted Cloughie's name as Barbara removed the drape. "It is such a wonderful tribute. The statue is perfect," Mrs Clough told this website. "To everyone involved, we cannot thank you enough. The statue is a perfect likeness and has captured Brian's character so remarkably well."

Mrs Clough unveils sculpture

The event was compered by TV presenter Gary Newbon and shown on a big screen. Moments before the unveiling, Gary spoke to Mrs Clough, who was accompanied on stage by her grand-daughter Natalie.

Barbara and Natalie with Gary Newbon

Gary Newbon also spoke to Cloughie's eldest son, Simon, who said the statue was a special tribute. Simon told this website: "It's amazing really, but working in Nottingham I do realise on a day-to-day basis how much my dad meant to so many people."

Simon Clough and Gary Newbon

Nigel Clough said he was very impressed by the statue. Referring to the sculptor Les Johnson, Nigel added: "He has done a spectacular job on it." Many of Cloughie's former players were at the event, including European Cup winners. Garry Birtles said the statue was superb. "It epitomises the man brilliantly," he said. "I am a born and bred Nottingham boy, so to see the statue here is absolutely fantastic." Cloughie's captain John McGovern described it as a fantastic tribute. "It is a tribute to a very special man and well deserved."

Former players next to the Master Manager

The unveiling of the statue follows a fund-raising campaign by a small group of volunteers who were brought together by the editor of this website. The Brian Clough Statue Fund smashed through its target in 18 months and raised £70,000. The statue fund chairman Paul Ellis said he was delighted. "The people of Nottingham can feel very proud today. This statue is a fantastic tribute to a man who put the city on the map."

Paul Ellis on stage

The city council and Nottingham Forest backed the fund. Forest's chairman and chief executive attended the ceremony, along with manager Colin Calderwood and the first team squad. The city council leader Jon Collins, whose personal backing of the statue fund was vital, said it was a tremendous day for the city and he congratulated all those involved.



WATCH A VIDEO OF THE UNVEILING HERE.