Roy Hudd statue set to be built outside Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds

After his death, his wife, Debbie Hudd, who had been unable to hold a memorial service due to the Covid-19 pandemic, reportedly suggested that a statue outside Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds would be a fitting tribute. Hudd had performed there numerous times, including in Goodnight Mr Tom in 2018. 

The creation of the statue was funded entirely by private donations, and now an application for planning permission has been sent to West Suffolk Council for approval. The project would require moving two large bins outside the theatre to make way for the statue.  

It is hoped the statue would be unveiled in May of this year to mark what would have been Hudd’s 90th birthday. 

"The cheerful nature of the statue and the improved visual nature of the area will provide mental health benefits to users and visitors, and further celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Bury St Edmunds," a design and access statement for the project reads.