Iconic Black Prince statue adds it sizeable support to England’s bid for World Cup semi-final glory on Wednesday

One of Leeds's most recognisable statues is now proudly showing its support for Gareth Southgate and the boys, ahead of their huge World Cup semi-final clash against Croatia.

To mark the huge occasion on Wednesday, which is England’s first World Cup semi-final since 1990, the iconic Black Prince statue in City Square is now holding an England flag and all set to shoot for goal with the addition of its very own football!

The civic buildings of Leeds Town Hall and Leeds Civic Hall will also be lit up red and white on both Tuesday and Wednesday night to cheer on England, and also be proudly flying a St George’s flag.

In recognition of Gareth Southgate’s tremendous leadership, and his now iconic wearing of a waistcoat during the tournament, Leeds City Council staff are also being offered the chance to join supporters across the country by putting on their own waistcoat attire, and celebrating ‘Waistcoat Wednesday’.

Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor Judith Blake, said:

“England’s performances under the astute management and leadership of Gareth Southgate in this World Cup have been absolutely sensational and instilled enormous excitement and pride in people of all ages across the country and of course here in Leeds.

“We want Gareth and the players to know that the city of Leeds is right behind them when they take on Croatia in the semi-final on Wednesday. What a great way therefore to show our support by ensuring that some of our recognisable civic buildings and the famous Black Prince statue on City Square, are now displaying their England colours with great pride!”

For media enquiries, please contact;

Colin Dickinson, Leeds City Council press office (0113) 39 51578

Email: colin.dickinson@leeds.gov.uk