Wigan’s ‘Golden Balls’ Gladiator Returns After Three-Year Council Ban, Sparks Local Jubilation

A towering golden statue of a Roman gladiator, affectionately dubbed ‘Golden Balls’ by local residents, has made a triumphant return to Wigan three years after a council dispute led to its removal. The 30ft (9m) figure, originally used to promote the 2000 film ‘Gladiator,’ was once a prominent feature outside a local antique shop.

The statue, which has divided opinion between those who cherish it and others who find it offensive, was taken down in October 2022 at the request of Wigan Council. However, owner Grant Adamson, 60, has decided to reinstate the warrior, citing a desire to spread ‘Christmas cheer’ across the town. Millenium TV has learned that the council is aware of the statue’s reappearance and is currently ‘assessing whether any consent is needed’ for its presence on the site.

Adamson, who owns Grant’s Bulldog Forge antique shop, believes the gladiator serves as a unique landmark that can boost local business by attracting visitors to the area. ‘It’s just something different, isn’t it, a bit of a landmark,’ Adamson stated. ‘There’s not another one of him.’

Local sentiment appears largely positive regarding the gladiator’s comeback. Anne Fowler, 67, expressed her delight, remarking, ‘It’s quite a sight when you come up the road, and it’s a great addition to have it back here at the forge.’ She added, ‘It certainly puts a smile on my face, I don’t think you can help it not to – it’s quite a thing.’ Another resident emphasized the importance of public art, stating that the statue’s nudity was not a concern. A man living nearby described the figure as ‘beautiful,’ noting it ‘made the place special.’

While social media has seen some discussions about the statue’s appropriateness, Adamson offered a lighthearted solution to potential concerns about its nakedness, suggesting that a ‘toga’ or ‘underpants’ could be fashioned for the gladiator. Joking, he mentioned, ‘If Santa Claus is watching, the gladiator would like a nice new pair of blue underpants for Christmas please.’ Adamson anticipates the council may request its removal again but remains hopeful for an open discussion if they initiate contact.