Date set for Torquay's Agatha Christie 'reveal'

Top TV and radio star will be part of the big event

A date has been set for the big reveal of the final piece of Torquay’s waterfront redevelopment jigsaw.

A new statue of crime writer Agatha Christie will be the focal point of the resort’s £4 million new harbourside plaza.

The work by local artist Elisabeth Hadley should have been unveiled last year, but delays in finishing the complicated project meant the event had to be put back.

Now a star-studded cast of guests will be in town to see the covers taken off the statue, which depicts the world’s favourite author and her beloved dog Peter.

The unveiling will be part of a ‘Spring Gathering’ on Saturday 12 April which will have guest appearances from radio and TV presenter Jeremy Vine and Robert Thorogood, who created the hit TV series Death In Paradise.

Mr Vine, who has just penned his own first crime novel, a Devon-based thriller called Murder On Line One, said: “Agatha Christie inspired me from the age of eleven. I cannot wait to launch my debut crime novel at this festival."

Mr Thorogood added: “I have loved Agatha Christie’s books my whole life. It’s an honour to be part of this celebration and share a day with fellow Christie fans."

The event will mark the beginning of Torquay’s busy programme of holiday season events, and 

Carolyn Custerson, chief executive of the English Riviera BID, said: “Agatha Christie is one of Torquay’s most treasured cultural icons, and we are thrilled to celebrate her enduring legacy with this very special Spring Gathering.

“The unveiling of her statue is a fitting tribute to the Queen of Crime, honouring her deep connection to the English Riviera. This event brings together crime fiction enthusiasts, bestselling authors, and Christie devotees from near and far for a truly unforgettable day in her hometown.”

The harbourside project hit delays when contractors discovered unexpected pipes and cables in the way. The harbourside plaza had to be re-designed as a result.

The plaza itself was opened in time for the Christmas Bay of lights trail.