Mystery statue unveiled in Hinckley as trailblazing mathematician

Sunday, 1 February 2026 at 13:06

A new statue of Ada Lovelace, thought to be the world's first computer programmer, was unveiled in Hinckley town centre on Saturday (31 Jan 2026).

The bronze statue honouring the 19th-century mathematics visionary was officially revealed in a ceremony attended by residents and local dignitaries.

More than a hundred people gathered outside the North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College on Lower Bond Street to witness the moment the statue was revealed to the public.

Ada Lovelace spent part of her youth in nearby Kirkby Mallory, and her legacy continues to resonate in modern computing.

The statue was moved in position early in January, by a crane, but the officially unveiling ceremony took place at the end of the month in front of MP Dr Luke Evans, the Lord Lieutenant of Leicesteshire and local historian Greg Drodz who all made speeches at the ceremony. Supporters hope it will be more than a landmark: they want it to serve as a source of inspiration and a reminder of the vital contributions of women in STEM fields.

Planning permission was granted in 2025 for the structure which measures 2.5 metres high and is mounted on a plinth of Portland stone outside the college building.

The statue is proposed by the Ada in Hinckley Community Interest Company (CIC) as a striking and distinctive physical form of commemoration and recognition of Ada’s legacy. The costs of production and installation were met by the CIC, with permission granted by the College for installation on their land.

More from Local News

Sapcote family pay tribute to ‘much-loved’ motorcyclist killed in Leicester collision

The family of a 57-year-old man from Sapcote have paid tribute to a much-loved husband, father and grandfather who died following a collision in Leicester in September.
Deadline approaching for Leicestershire secondary school applications

Parents and carers have until Saturday (31 October) to apply for Year 7 secondary school places in Leicestershire for September 2027.
Have your say on plans to tackle congestion at Gibbet Hill Roundabout

National Highways has extended its consultation on proposed improvements to the busy A5 Gibbet Hill junction near Lutterworth. Residents and businesses now have until November 17th to give their views.
Warehouse near Britain’s most bashed bridge gets green light despite fears it would be a “monstrosity” to neighbours

Plans for a mega storage unit near Britain’s most bashed bridge have been given the green light – despite being dubbed a “monstrosity” by opponents.
Glowing art exhibition comes to Hinckley

A free UV light art exhibition is bringing a splash of fluorescent colour to Hinckley this autumn, with family activities during half-term.
Hinckley poppy appeal organiser Elaine Ward to be honoured at Royal Albert Hall

A Hinckley woman who has dedicated more than 50 years to supporting the Royal British Legion and raising money for the Poppy Appeal is to be honoured at the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall, in front of King Charles.
Nuneaton man admits five charges after sexual threats in Camp Hill

A 40-year-old Nuneaton man has admitted five offences, including making sexual threats in Camp Hill. He’s been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing next month.
Friday Market 23rd October cancelled due to Storm Austen

Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council are advising that the Friday market 23rd October is cancelled due to Storm Austen.Traders operating from their vans will still be standing.