The king is in altogether better shape

11:14am Friday 25th April 2008 in News By Harry Walton

Weymouth and Portland environment director Richard Burgess, with Weymouth College foundation degree students studying applied architectural stonework and conservation who helped with the restoration Weymouth and Portland environment director Richard Burgess, with Weymouth College foundation degree students studying applied architectural stonework and conservation who helped with the restoration

WEYMOUTH'S Grade I-listed King's Statue was unveiled in all its glory today after its most extensive restoration work since it was first displayed in 1810.

Contractors found evidence of 20 layers of paint including black which was used to conceal the statue from enemy bombers in the Second World War.

The statue has been repainted while the rusting ironwork holding it together has been removed and replaced by a stainless steel framework.

Weymouth and Portland environment director Richard Burgess said: "Without this project, the statue would have crumbled into complete disrepair.

"King George III is a hugely important figure in Weymouth's history having spent 17 summers holidaying here with the Royal Family.

"His patronage helped establish the town as the first seaside resort and gave the Esplanade its majestic Georgian architecture."

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