Greek Runner statue in need of donations
Residents of Hammersmith & Fulham are invited to support the restoration of one of the borough’s historic public artworks, the Greek Runner statue in St Peter’s Square Gardens. For nearly a century, this striking bronze figure by celebrated sculptor Sir William Blake Richmond has stood proudly in the Grade II-listed gardens, admired for their elegant layout and historic charm. The statue captures the spirit of movement, athleticism and classical beauty.
As the statue’s centenary approaches, natural wear from weather and time has made it a “perfect moment” to join forces with the local Park Friends group in celebrating and enhancing this cherished historic landmark. Specialist conservation work is planned for both the bronze figure and the plinth, with restoration expected to begin this autumn.
A crowdfunding campaign is already underway to help restore the sculpture, and thanks to the generosity of local residents and art lovers, it’s raised more than £5,200 so far. That’s 40% of the total target of £13,124. The council has pledged to match fund the campaign, helping to secure the project.
The council’s contribution will come from the Community Infrastructure Levy – a fund paid by property developers to support local facilities and infrastructure. With your help, we can restore the statue to its original splendour and preserve it for future generations to enjoy.
The statue was sculpted by Sir William Blake Richmond (1842-1921), a renowned British artist best known for his portraits and the dazzling mosaics inside St Paul’s Cathedral. A leading figure in the Arts and Crafts Movement, Richmond lived and worked for many years in the parish of St Peter’s, Hammersmith.
His Greek Runner statue blends classical elegance with Victorian artistry, an enduring tribute to movement, grace and local pride. The statue was cast in 1879 at the famous Thames Ditton Foundry and gifted to the square in 1926 by Richmond’s family. It is a Grade II-listed monument, officially recognised as part of the nation’s heritage.
The Greek Runner statue is nestled in one of only two parks in the borough with listed status, the other being Bishops Park. Over the decades, it has stood as a silent witness to everything from wartime blackouts to joyful summer picnics and dog walks.
“This project is more than just a repair,” the council says, “it’s a celebration of our shared heritage and a chance for the community to come together in support of public art. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to safeguarding this cultural treasure.”
Click here to back the project on Spacehive.
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