Aston Villa unveil statue as part of 150th anniversary legacy

The lion, officially revealed by club legends Brian Little and Dennis Mortimer in a ceremony at Villa Park on Monday afternoon, will eventually form part of The Warehouse development at the back of the North Stand.

Created by sculptor Tanya Russell, it was commissioned by Villa’s honorary anniversary board with the aim of leaving a lasting legacy for the celebrations marking the club’s 150th birthday.

Outgoing president of business operations Chris Heck explained how a number of different ideas had been discussed for the statue.

The club has enjoyed an association with the Scottish Lion Rampant for nearly all its 150 years of existence having been introduced as the club’s crest by William McGregor in 1876.

Heck said: “There was a lot of debate but the thought was what represents this club, universally, as being the heart of the country and of course representing all things that are strong and stable and successful over 150 years.

“To have this beautiful lion represent the club as part of a prime meeting for all Villains coming into Villa Park is an honour and a privilege to be part of this project.”

Other events marking the 150th anniversary have included a limited edition kit worn by Unai Emery’s team in January’s FA Cup win over West Ham, a match designated as the club’s anniversary match.

A photobook was also produced, while the club is in the process of creating a Legacy Wall by the North Stand car park, for which supporters can purchase a personalised plaque.

Former athlete and lifelong Villa supporter Katherine Merry, a member of the honorary board, said: “All of us agree, I genuinely don’t think any club could have done it any better.

“The legacy of this year will be looked upon in the 175th anniversary, the 200th anniversary when all of us are no longer here, they will look back and say: ‘Blimey, they celebrated their 150th anniversary well’

“This is the legacy of what has been an outstanding 150th anniversary year.”