A towering 20-foot golden statue of a naked Roman gladiator has made a triumphant return to the streets of Wigan, defying previous council objections and delighting local residents who had campaigned for its comeback.
The Return of Golden Balls
The striking statue, affectionately nicknamed 'Golden Balls' by locals, now stands proudly outside Bulldog Forge in Ince, Wigan, after being removed in 2022 following neighbour complaints. Shop owner Grant Adamson, 60, decided to reintroduce the controversial figure to spread some much-needed Christmas cheer throughout the community.
"People were always asking me when is he coming back," Adamson explained, noting that the statue had become an unexpected local landmark during its previous appearance. "So I decided to bring him out for Christmas. It's good for the business and good for the community."
Council Concerns and Community Celebration
Wigan Council confirmed they are aware of the statue's reappearance and are currently assessing whether any formal action needs to be taken. A council spokesperson stated: "We are aware that a large statue has been brought onto land at Darlington Street East, Ince, and are assessing whether any consent is needed from the council."
This isn't the first time the statue has caused planning permission debates. Back in 2022, the council advised Adamson that the statue required advertising consent, leading to its removal before any formal enforcement action could be taken.
However, Adamson has previously disputed the council's stance, arguing that since the statue stands on his own land, positioned on a movable trailer without protruding beyond his property boundaries, it shouldn't require planning permission.
Local Reaction and Social Media Buzz
The statue's return has generated significant excitement across social media platforms, with dedicated Facebook pages campaigning for its reinstatement. Local residents expressed their delight at seeing the golden figure back in its familiar spot.
One enthusiastic supporter wrote: "YESSSSSSSS FINALLY GOLDEN BALLS IS HOME LOL," while another commented: "Yaaaaay he used to brighten my day!" The overwhelming positive response demonstrates the statue's unexpected popularity among Wigan residents.
The gladiator statue originally served as promotional material for the 2000 Russell Crowe blockbuster about Roman gladiators before finding its way to Wigan. Though Adamson admits it's "not quite Brazil's Christ the Redeemer," he revealed that customers were "heartbroken" when it had to be removed just six months after its initial appearance.
The Christmas celebration will be brief however, as Adamson confirmed the statue's return is temporary, intended simply to "spread a little Christmas magic" during the festive season.
