Unions Plan Tower and Sculpture for Left Field

29 Apr 2004

Trade unions have announced that they will be marking May Day 2004 by beginning work on a giant steel tower and sculpture to celebrate the global struggle for social and economic justice. The tower will be erected at the entrance to the Left Field at the Glastonbury Festival in time for this year's festival at the end of June.

The Left Field Tower, standing some 70 feet high, has been designed by Cornwall-based artist Graham Jobbins. It is being built in North Devon by ProWeld using skilled GMB shipwrights and welders from the Appledore shipyard who until recently were facing a bleak future as they fought against the threat of closure.

“I had a call from someone in Barnstable,” said Eavis, “who told me there were 400 or so shipyard workers who were being made redundant and wanted to make something in metal for this years Festival. I came up with the idea of having 12 large figures cut out of steel plate revolving on a big cylinder pulling a rope which should indicate the need for all people around the world to work and pull together.”

Kurt Jackson added: “When asked by Michael if I could help with this project, I had to admit that I didn't have the relevant know how but I knew a man who did, so I recommended Mr Jobbins and bingo!”

Graham Jobbins, Left Field Tower designer, was more than happy to take up the challenge. “Having been a festival goer for twenty five years, I was thrilled that Michael has given me the opportunity to design the Left Field Tower. I want it to be a beacon of hope and a memorial for the working people's of this world, and show solidarity in the struggle against poverty and exploitation; as well as a celebration of the spirit, skills and ingenuity of the workers, artists, musicians and performers who all make Glastonbury such a phenomenal festival.”

Geoff Martin, union organiser and Left Field Director said: “We’ve timed the commissioning of the Left Field Tower for this weekend to remind people what May Day is all about - international workers solidarity. This tower will rise from the Somerset fields this summer like the Labour Movement's Angel of the North. We aim to inspire people to get involved and get active.”

Finally, Gary Cooke, GMB Steward for the Appledore workers, said “after the year that we've had, marking May Day with the commissioning of this tower is a real boost for industry in Devon and a labour of love for all of us involved.”

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