This curious statue outside Hyde Town Hall was unveiled in May 2007 and commemorates the achievements of the Hyde Seals Water Polo Team who were World Champions from 1904 to 1906.
Hyde Seal's men's team travelled to Paris in 1904 as English champions. They took part in a competition organised by the French newspaper L'Auto and defeated the defending champions, Brussels, 14-2 in a match which was played in the River Marne.
The team included George Wilkinson who went on to captain Great Britain to the Olympic water polo gold at the 1908 games in London and at Stockholm in 1912. Hyde Seals returned to Paris in 1905 and 1906 to retain their title. In the ensuing years it has produced swimmers such as Lillian Preece and Sylvia Platt-Rogers.
The club is currently based in Denton - more information on their website.
A contribution to the Curiosities Theme at City Daily Photoblogs.
I like it- it really stands out well!
ReplyDeleteIt's lovely Gerald!
ReplyDeleteIt has the essence of a seal! Good one.
ReplyDeleteInteresting piece of history and a fantastic looking statue too.
ReplyDeleteWonderfully life like.
ReplyDelete