New sculpture of iconic GWR pioneer revealed

A sculpture honouring railway pioneer Sir Daniel Gooch has been unveiled at GWR Park.

The artwork, commissioned by South Swindon Parish Council, stands at over two meters tall and is positioned 2.8 meters above the ground, and was meticulously hand-carved by wood carver Graham Derham.

Sir Daniel Gooch was a key figure in the development of the Great Western Railway, the first Superintendent of Locomotive Engines on the Great Western Railway from 1837 to 1864, and its chairman from 1865 until his death in 1889.

He was proud to be called 'the father of Swindon works' and is a significant figure in the town’s history. It was Sir Daniel who, at the age of 24, sent a letter to visionary chief engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, recommending that he build the Great Western Railway Works in Swindon.

The sculpture follows on from years of improvement works at GWR Park. Previous improvement projects include the creation of a Blossom Circle, installation of new historical information boards, regeneration of the formal beds and the transformation of an old garage to use as a permanent gardener’s base for the park.

Cllr Linda Kasmaty, South Swindon Parish Council, Chair of Leisure, Environment & Amenities, said: “I’m thrilled to see this magnificent sculpture completed.

"Public art such as this is so important as it enriches our public spaces and represents Swindon’s railway heritage. We’re delighted that Graham’s exceptional craftsmanship has created a new landmark for residents and park visitors to enjoy and learn about over the coming years.”

Artist Graham Derham said: "This project has been fantastic to work on; there have been several challenges, both logistically with the working platforms and organically with the structure of the tree. 

"I'm very pleased with the end result, however, given more time there is much more I would like to do. 

"Daniel Gooch was remarkable; his engineering expertise, compassion towards the workers, his energy, forethought and will is inspiring. I hope I've done him justice and helped bring to light a man who is so often overshadowed by Brunel."

For more information about the parish council and its initiatives, people can visit www.southswindon-pc.gov.uk