Surf statue takes shape on Newquay’s Killacourt

The surfer element of a new statue celebrating Newquay’s surfing heritage has been lowered into position on the Killacourt.

The bronze sculpture is being installed as part of a new landmark for the town.

The statue has been donated to the town by the Keogh Foundation, set up by Stuart and Cherry Keogh. Stuart Keogh died in 2023 at the age of 76.

Work on the project began in February, when the base was installed. The latest stage has seen the main surfer figure arrive on site and be fixed into position.

The £250,000 statue has been gifted to Newquay by the foundation.

It is intended to celebrate the town’s long-standing reputation as a centre of surfing, recognising more than 60 years of history and the people who helped shape the sport locally.

The Killacourt was chosen as the location due to its connection with Newquay Bay, where surfing in the town first developed.

The project was supported following a public consultation carried out by Newquay Town Council and the Keogh Foundation in August 2022.

It has also received backing from early figures in the town’s surfing scene, including Roger Mansfield, Alan McBride, Dennis Cross and Trish Scarlett.