Dartford Borough Council has proudly unveiled the town’s tribute to Len Goodman, celebrating the life and legacy of one of its most cherished residents.
The unveiling event took place on Wednesday 1st July, bringing together Len’s family and friends, residents from across the borough and some familiar faces, including Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood, to celebrate Len’s enduring legacy.
After a successful professional dancing career and decades of teaching in Dartford town centre, Len Goodman went on to achieve worldwide fame as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing With the Stars in the United States. He passed away in 2023, aged 78.
The newly unveiled interactive artwork, installed outside the Goodman Dance Academy in Market Street, honours Len’s remarkable contribution to the town. The academy itself holds special significance, having first been opened by Len in 1973.
Designed to encourage visitors to get moving, the artwork features inscriptions and dance steps set into the pavement, inviting passers-by to follow in Len’s footsteps while enjoying some of his best-loved sayings. Familiar phrases such as ‘Pickle my walnuts,’ ‘it’s all sizzle and no sausage,’ and ‘Seven!’ bring his unique wit and personality to life.
Artist Adrian Riley, who has created permanent artworks for the National Trust, English Heritage, and the NHS, worked closely with Len Goodman’s family throughout the design process to ensure the finished piece reflected his much-loved character.
Leader of the Council Jeremy Kite said: “It’s wonderful to see this tribute to Len Goodman unveiled here in the heart of Dartford. Len often described himself as ‘a dance teacher from Dartford who got lucky’, but to us he was so much more than that. He brought joy to millions, inspired generations of dancers, and never forgot the town he called home.
Len is greatly missed, and it has been a privilege to work with Adrian and Len’s family to bring this project to life. We hope this tribute serves as a fitting celebration of his remarkable legacy – a lasting reminder of a much-loved local man whose warmth, talent and enthusiasm helped get the whole nation dancing.”
Adrian Riley said: “It’s been a real delight to see this artwork take its place in the town and to watch people interact with it today at the unveiling. From the beginning, I wanted to create something that would encourage people to stop, smile and perhaps even try a few dance steps of their own. That felt like a fitting way to honour Len, who was someone who brought such joy, energy and connection to so many people through dance. I hope it inspires visitors for years to come and keeps his spirit alive in the heart of Dartford.”
Len’s wife, Sue, and his son, James, said: “We are delighted to see this tribute to Len unveiled and to know that his connection with Dartford will be celebrated for years to come. Adrian has created something truly special that captures Len’s personality, humour and love of dance. For more than 50 years, our family’s dance school has welcomed people through its doors, helping generations discover the joy of dancing. To have this wonderful tribute just outside the studio makes it all the more meaningful. We know Len would have been deeply touched by the affection and thought that has gone into it, and immensely proud to be remembered in this way.”
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