THE family of a much-loved Basildon artist are thrilled a new piece of his work has been displayed in the town centre.

A stone statue created by the late Dave Chapple, entitled King Edgar’s Head, is now in proud residence in St Martin’s Square in Basildon.

The striking piece is mounted on a plinth in the flower bed outside the Basildon Centre.

It shows King Edgar, a medieval monarch who reigned between 959 and 975, and is credited with unifying the country.

Mr Chapple’s family are delighted Basildon Council decided to give Edgar pride of place in the town square, and said the move would have made him proud.

The much respected artist died at his home in Noak Bridge in November aged 77.

The placement of the statue comes six months after the council provoked uproar when it removed another of Mr Chapple’s sculpture, the famous Woodsman Poacher, from its home in St Martin's Square.

Dean Chapple, 42, the artist’s son, said: “We are really happy to see the statue here.

“The council suggested it of it’s own accord without any pressure from us, and we were delighted.

“It’s nice it has finally recognised dad’s talent. He might not be a world-famous artist, but he is well known throughout Essex.”

Mr Chapple’s widow, Doreen, 74, said his patriotism inspired him to carve the head.

She said: “He loved Britain and the British people. so he wanted to make a sculpture of one of the early kings.

“I think Dave would have liked to see King Edgar displayed like this.”

Basildon Council leader Tony Ball added: “I am delighted King Edgar’s head is now displayed in the newly renovated St Martin’s Square and it is a very welcome addition.

“It is another fine example of Dave Chapple’s work and I am glad it is on public display.”