Welsh pop artist Ian ‘H’ Watkins is set to have an 8ft tall statue erected in Cowbridge, Wales to honor his accomplishments as a member of the pop group Steps and his contributions to British music and the town itself. The statue, funded by private donations and designed by a local artist, will be situated outside the Bear Hotel in Cowbridge, close to Ian’s birthplace. Ian expressed his surprise and pride upon learning about the statue, stating that it was one of his proudest moments and showing gratitude towards the donors and Cultural Cowbridge. The unveiling of the statue is planned for June 2024 to coincide with Cowbridge’s Pride event, which Ian founded in 2022.
Despite the upcoming statue honoring Ian ‘H’ Watkins, the pop group Steps announced a hiatus in July 2023 as members pursued solo projects. Claire Richards, another member of Steps, assured fans that the group would eventually reunite, emphasizing that the break was temporary. Various band members, including Claire, Faye Tozer, and Lee Latchford-Evans, have been focusing on individual endeavors such as solo albums, theater performances, and fitness businesses, respectively. The news of the statue and the group’s hiatus comes at a time when Ian and his former bandmates are exploring new opportunities and expanding their careers beyond the band.
The statue honoring Ian Watkins marks a significant milestone in his career as a popstar, actor, and broadcaster, as well as his continued impact on Cowbridge and the surrounding community. The heartfelt tribute from Cultural Cowbridge reflects the appreciation for Ian’s contributions to British music and his efforts to make the town a better and more inclusive place to live. The unveiling of the statue will take place in a prominent location in Cowbridge, celebrating Ian’s legacy and recognizing his ties to his hometown. The event, scheduled for June 2024, will coincide with Cowbridge’s Pride parade, adding another layer of significance to the tribute.
While the statue honoring Ian ‘H’ Watkins has garnered attention and appreciation from fans and the local community, the temporary hiatus of pop group Steps has also generated buzz among music enthusiasts. Members of the band have been pursuing solo projects and professional ventures, showcasing their individual talents and interests beyond their collective music career. As Ian Watkins awaits the unveiling of his statue, he continues to focus on his own solo projects and involvement in the Cowbridge community, demonstrating a dedication to his craft and his hometown that has earned him widespread recognition and admiration.
The statue dedicated to Ian ‘H’ Watkins highlights the impact of his work in the music industry and his ongoing contributions to British culture. The tribute serves as a testament to his talent and achievements as a popstar, actor, and broadcaster, as well as his commitment to making a positive difference in the community. As Ian prepares for the unveiling of the statue in Cowbridge, he reflects on his journey and the support he has received from fans, donors, and local organizations. The statue will stand as a lasting symbol of Ian’s legacy and his significant role in shaping the musical landscape of the UK, providing inspiration for future generations of artists and performers.
