The vision for the Jeremiah Horrocks statue was inaugurated at the historic Hornby Reading Room in Liverpool Central Library. The event brought together leaders from the worlds of science, literature, and education to celebrate Toxteth’s "Father of British Astronomy."
Key Speakers & Supporters included:
- Professor Allan Chapman (Oxford University): Renowned astronomical historian and project patron.
- Frank Cottrell-Boyce: Acclaimed screenwriter and author, framing Horrocks’ story for a modern audience.
- Professor Andy Newsham (LJMU): Bridging the gap between 17th-century discovery and modern astrophysics.
- Michaela Mitchell (Liverpool Life Sciences UTC): Outlining the educational impact for local schools.
- Gerard Gilligan (Society for the History of Astronomy): Representing the deep historical roots of the project.
"While the 2019 launch was a resounding success, the project was paused due to the global pandemic. We have now reignited the campaign at UCLan and are actively seeking funding to cast the final 7ft 6in bronze."