2012 Cycle Race Sculpture (A24)

Now that the sun has finally come out, everyone is out making the most of the weather and checking out the Olympic Road Race circuit. One object that is causing a lot of interest is the new "2012 Cycle Race Sculpture" on the A24. The sculpture, by Heather Burrell, is located in the middle of the Denbies (Pixham Lane) Roundabout and will be passed by all the Olympic Cyclists on their journey along the A24, towards the foot of Box Hill.

Two cyclists pose beside the 2012 Cycle Race Sculpture (26th July 2012)

The sculpture was funded by Mole Valley District Council (£10,000), with the balance by sponsors, who paid £40 each for one of the 300 or so metal "leaves" which form the sculpture.

Designer Heather Burrell, speaking at the unveiling, said: "I am absolutely stunned. It's lovely to be here and share with you the experience of putting the sculpture together. I am so delighted that everyone bought a leaf and made it happen". The design was the result of a competition, with a committee comprising members of Surrey County Council and Mole Valley District Council members and officers, together with local residents and artists, selecting the winner.

Close up of the 2012 Cycle Road Race Sculpture, by Heather Burrell

The local Dorking Cycling Club, whose members helped sponsor the sculpture, are one group of many that got behind this community project. Being a permanent fixture, it will serve as an impressive reminder of the London 2012 Cycle Road Races for many years.

Let's hope that the Olympic cyclists get a chance to raise their heads, to appreciate the sculpture, as they go by!