LOVE will be in the air at the end of this month when Eros takes his place in Fleetwood.

A statue of the Greek God of Love, bought from Sotheby's by Lofthouse of Fleetwood Ltd, the family firm who own Fisherman's Friend, will be officially unveiled by the company's chairman Doreen Lofthouse on November 26.

The 17-foot statue, made of aluminium and set on a bronze cast, is an exact replica of Sir Alfred Gilbert's original - which graces Piccadilly Circus, London - and will point the way to the regenerated Fleetwood from the Nautical College roundabout on Amounderness Way.

In addition a plaque will be unveiled by Mrs Lofthouse in front of an array of distinguished guests including the Mayor and Mayoress of Wyre, Harry and Frances Taylor.

Deputy chief executive of Wyre Borough Council Brian Rowe said: "This is yet another mammoth contribution by Lofthouse to one of Lancashire's greatest historic towns. Eros is a delightful masterpiece and a most fitting and apt accolade to the town of Fleetwood and its people." The area surrounding the statue has also been landscaped, including shrubs being planted in the shape of a love heart.

Doreen Lofthouse added: "I am so pleased that the efforts of so many people have resulted in this beautiful new landmark for Fleetwood."

The statue is one of a limited edition of 10 casts taken from Gilbert's original plasters of his 19th century work during its restoration in 1987.

Before being bought by Lofthouse it decorated the Trocadero building, close to the original in London.

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