RAMSBOTTOM’S famous Tilted Vase sculpture is back up and running.

Unveiled in Market Place in 1998, the bronze centrepiece was the result of a £250,000 National Lottery grant.

Designed by sculptor Edward Allington to symbolise Ramsbottom’s historical association with water, as the town sits on the River Irwell, the sculpture, known locally as ‘The Urn’, is one of the many that can be found along the 30-mile Irwell Sculpture Trail.

Despite initially proving controversial, it has taken pride of place in the town ever since, however, its water feature was switched off in 2013.

It began flowing again in 2016 after a campaign from residents and councillors to get it switched back on, but just weeks later, it was turned off as a result of water leakages.

Now, thanks to the help of Ramsbottom councillor Rob Hodkinson, who previously worked in the pump industry, and the perseverance of Holcombe resident Falmai Binns, the sculpture has been restored to full functionality.

In a bid to stop the leaks, the pair approached Bury Council’s head of arts and museums, Tony Trehy, about replacing the sculpture’s pump.

“We had done our homework and looked at the pump underneath and realised that it needed a new one,” said Mrs Binns.

“We knew it would cost money to get it fitted, but Tony was so keen that it all came together nicely.”

Investigations to find the cause of the leak were carried out by Ian Marshall of Ponds Pools & Fountains Ltd. He discovered that the leakages were a result of losses around the grate where the water went underground. A stainless steel tray has now been buried under the stone around the grate to prevent the water from leaking.

The work, which came at a cost of £1,470, began on June 15 and was completed at the end of last month.

Subsequent tests showed it to have been a success - the water losses had reduced, but would still require minor top ups on a weekly basis.

Mrs Binns said: “They have done a super job. When I went down and saw it running, tears came to my eyes.

“The sculpture fits the space so well, but it is only right when the water is flowing.”

Ramsbottom councillor Rob Hodkinson added: “I am delighted to have played my part in getting the Urn flowing again. The cost to replace the original pump was unaffordable and having previously worked in the pump industry I was able to reduce the installation and running costs significantly by proposing a submersible pump be used.

“I would like to thank all those involved in bringing the Urn back to life, in particular Dr Falmai Binns for her passion and drive to see it fully operational.”