Dion's dream to immortalise psychedelic Syd
SYD Barrett fans want a striking sculpture like this to commemorate their hero.
A music lover from Australia is leading the project to build a memorial in Cambridge as a lasting tribute to the Pink Floyd founder.
Dion Johnson, from Astral Piper - The New Syd Barrett Appreciation Society, has won approval from Syd's family to pursue the dream.
Mr Johnson said: "They are a very warm and compassionate family, and this memorial project is just as much for them as it is to honour the legend and soul of Syd Barrett.
"To achieve this goal it is only fitting they be on the outside looking in without direct involvement. The only other step that will involve them is perhaps a final design choice, if it comes to that."
He added: "I think we need to remember that to us fans, Syd was a shining light that enhanced our lives with his music and much-admired charismatic personality.
"To the Barrett family, he was a much-loved individual who is now a very sadly missed family member. Both of these points need to be considered when we finalise the design for public display."
The sculpture design shown is an early idea and features an image of Syd as the wildhaired psychedelic rocker who shot to fame with Pink Floyd in the 1960s.
Mr Johnson has contacted Cambridge City Council about the idea and is awaiting feedback.
He hopes a sculpture could be built on a green space somewhere within the city.
"It is my belief that one of Cambridge's much-loved sons and creative geniuses deserves a memorial sculpture," he said.
" I am really keen for the people of Cambridge to be involved in this project, and I welcome any alternate design ideas from anybody, or any further input."
Dion Johnson
Dion Johnson
Astral Piper has a website http://www.sydbarrett.org , which includes numerous articles and photographs about Syd and is also being used to help raise money for the sculpture project.
Roger "Syd" Barrett, who lived in St Margaret's Square, Cambridge, died in July at the age of 60.
Dion Johnson can be contacted at [email protected]
'Peaceful' home gets new owner
A BID has been accepted for Syd Barrett's house.
Following huge interest from across the globe, a process of sealed bids has come to a close. The top offer for the modest 1930s semi in St Margaret's Square, Cambridge, is above the asking price of ?300,000, but the figure cannot be revealed until contracts are signed.
Cambridge-based agent Cheffins dealt with the sale and carried out 150 viewings - roughly 50 per cent more interest than a standard property.
Martin Walshe, senior residential partner at Cheffins, said: "Despite the interest from Syd's fans, the top bids all came from people attracted by the house itself. It's the sort of property which is very much sought after."
Rosemary Breen, Syd's sister, remembers him enjoying the house where he lived from 1981 until his death in July.
"He loved the peace and quiet of St Margaret's Square. The only intrusions to his peace were the occasional visits from fans," she said.
?) be then