The Britten as a Boy statue has now been officially installed, gazing out to sea just as young Benjamin Britten once did from his bedroom window. This incredible project has been entirely funded through donations and community events held over the five years since it first began — a true testament to local passion and pride.
Despite the diabolical weather on the day — relentless wind and rain — the turnout was extraordinary. It was wonderful (and quite moving) to see so many people come together to celebrate such a special moment for Kirkley. If you missed it, you can watch the unveiling by clicking the link below.
The project was led by the Britten as a Boy Committee, including Lowestoft-born broadcaster and children’s author Zeb Soanes, alongside a dedicated team of enthusiastic local supporters. Together they raised an incredible £120,000 over more than three-and-a-half years.
One of the standout moments of the event was a beautiful new song performed by the children of St Mary’s Primary School. With lyrics by Zeb Soanes — drawn from Britten’s own childhood diaries — and music composed by Ben Perry, it was a truly poignant tribute.
You can listen to the song by clicking here.
And because the words are so moving, we’ve included the lyrics below for you too!
What Bliss Is Home
A family home filled with music,
Concerts and dramas we stage,
Dreaming up songs for my mother,
Written at 5 years of age.
I see the sea from my window,
Watching the steamers sail on,
Holding my breath till they vanish,
…. going, going, gone.
CHORUS
Beyond the horizon,
my future’s my own,
Wherever life takes me,
What bliss is home.
Claremont Pier stretches before me,
Mr Punch down on the sand,
Donkey rides passing right by us,
Lowestoft looking so grand.
Rough seas to jump and to swim in,
But we are daring and young,
Meals brought by mum to the beach hut,
Endless long summers of fun.
CHORUS
Sundays we go to the harbour,
A quiet day to walk down,
Fishing boats calm in their moorings,
Our favourite part of town.
Herring girls come here from Scotland,
Working by flares through the night,
Packing the fish in huge barrels,
A thrilling and marvellous sight.
CHORUS
With your kind words I can flourish,
Praise helps a person to grow,
I’ll weather the storms that are out there,
And return to the town that I know.
CHORUS x 2
