Wise up... Little Ern sculptor hits back at critics
A SCULPTOR has defended her depiction of Yorkshire-born funnyman Ernie Wise after critics said it does not resemble him.
The 10ft statue of "Little Ern" was lowered into place in Queen Street, Morley, near Leeds, at the weekend but has received a mixed reception, with negative comments posted on Facebook.
Local artist Melanie Wilks, who spent months chiselling the stone block into shape, said: "I stand by this sculpture – I'm really proud of it. He is leaning to the side because it is a dance pose; it gives the effect of movement."
She said Ernie's widow Doreen, who helped pay for the tribute, was "really thrilled" by it.