Much-loved sculptures seal comeback

A North East seaside town is celebrating the return of a much-loved public artwork following a carefully planned restoration project.

The iconic wooden seals of Redcar have been recreated and reinstalled, once again taking pride of place on York Road Roundabout in Coatham, a key route for visitors heading to the beach. 

Crafted by North Yorkshire artist Ste Iredale, the new sculptures replace the original works he created more than a decade ago. 

Carved from sycamore in 2011, the earlier seals had deteriorated over time, with one collapsing due to rot and two others reaching the end of their lifespan. 

Made from more durable red cedar and fitted with solar lighting, the replacements are designed to remain a feature of the town for generations to come.

A fourth seal sculpture, added in 2017, remains in situ and is set to be restored and treated to extend its life. 

Ste, who created the seals using a chainsaw, oversaw their installation, said: “I love the reaction these sculptures have had all these years. 

“I can’t remember who came up with the idea for seals, but for obvious reasons you can’t go above a metre on roundabouts and basking seals are perfect. 

“What makes them special is the way people interact with them. 

“So, at Christmas they’ll be in festive gear and during the pandemic they had masks on. 

“There’s also going to be a film about them which is just brilliant to see.”

Councillor Carl Quartermain, cabinet member for highways and transport at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, added: “It was sad to see the seals looking so poorly after giving such pleasure for so many years and it’s going to be glorious to see them back to full splendour. 

“It’s also exciting that a film is being made about the project by Neil Bates, well known for his former role at the Regent Cinema. 

“I can’t wait to see it. 

Councillor Adam Brook, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, added: “The seals have become part of the identity of Coatham in Redcar with people knowing they’re really at the seaside when they see the seals. 

“And, of course, the children of the area have to see the seals bedecked once again in tinsel at Christmas. 

“I’d like to congratulate the hugely talented Steve Iredale and everyone involved.”

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