Ian Morrison with a model of his white Invicta horse

by Sian Napier

snapier@thekmgroup.co.uk

A planning application is expected to be submitted soon to Dover District Council asking for permission to put up a huge statue of Kent's symbol, the white Invicta horse.

It has been designed by Ian Morrison, who lives in Wingham, and land has already been earmarked for the horse on the cliffs at Little Farthingloe Farm close to the A20 between Dover and Folkestone.

Mr Morrison said the next step was getting planning permission and then raising the £2m which he estimates the statue will cost.

He came up with the design of a rampant horse after seeing Mark Wallinger's winning entry for the Ebbsfleet Landmark Project, popularly christened the Angel of the South.

With its four hooves firmly placed on the ground, Mr Morrison said it was not the right type of horse for a county landmark.

Mr Morrison's design rapidly gained popularity among Kent people and is also supported by Cllr Alex King, deputy leader of Kent County Council.

Mr Morrison said the proposed site was a good one because the horse will be seen from Boulogne and Calais as visitors arrive at Dover.

"As people cross the Channel they will see the horse all the way over," he said.

"It couldn't be a better site and I'm really pleased."

Mr Morrison's horse would be made from galvanised steel and would stand 100ft tall.

He has just finished making an exact scale model but as there is no public money to pay for the horse it is hoped the cost will be met from individuals or companies and from sponsorship.

The idea is for people to pay to have their names inscribed on the horse's mane and tail.