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Long Boi statue unveiling – as it happened

York live

26 September 2024

These were our updates as the legendary duck’s memorial was unveiled

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What will be happening this morning

Photograph: Greg James on Instagram

There is more to today than a mere statue unveiling.

That of course is the apogee of today’s events when we will finally see Long Boi immortalised.

But there’s a whole order of service. It includes a very serious minute of quacking.

Here it is in full:

  • Welcome: Greg James, friend of Long Boi
  • Charlie Jeffrey, vice chancellor of University of York
  • Long Boi bedtime story – Calum Leslie
  • Reflection: University of York students
  • Making Long Boi: Neil Mason, Long Boi’s sculptor
  • Reflection: University of York delegates
  • Musical interludes: Duck-themed 10 minute takeover
  • The Sing Song Society – Hot To Go (Long Boi’s version)
  • Tribute messages: Friends of Long Boi
  • Long Boi Statue Unveiling
  • Minute of quacking
  • Burial on Derwent Lake: Jordik Viking Centre’s Vikings

The day is finally here

Greg James (left) and Long Boi. Photographs: BBC / Sarah Louise Bennett / York Students Union

York is preparing to say goodbye.

The city’s favourite waterfowl, Long Boi, will be honoured at a service held at the University of York today (Thursday, 26 September).

And BBC star Greg James will be broadcasting his Radio 1 breakfast show live from the campus – and unveiling the long-awaited statue to the web-footed legend. 

You can read our full preview here.