Bronze tribute to Coventry icons George and John

Douglas Jennings is a sculptor who produces artworks for public figures in the world of sport, entertainment and politics. He has been commissioned by the statue committe Coventry City Football Club to create a commemorative statue to honour George Curtis and John Sillett, who took they Sky Blues to FA Cup victory.

The statue has been made by sculptor Douglas Jennings. Past footballing figures to be immortalised by Douglas include Johnny Haynes, George Cohen and Jack Charlton, and he has also produced statues of other figures including Queen Elizabeth II.
Vic Minett went down to meet Douglas in his studio and see the statue in its final stages.

George and John would lead Coventry City Football Club to FA Cup triumph in May 1987, beating Tottenham Hotspur 3-2 in a classic final at the old Wembley Stadium. The pair took charge and guided the Club to top flight safety in 1986.

George was a legendary player at the Club, captain and leader in the Sky Blue Revolution of the 60s as the Sky Blues rose through the league, he played a total of 543 games for the Club from 1956 to 1969. Curtis went on to play a hugely influential role behind the scenes at the Sky Blues from 1972 to 1994 in commercial roles and as Managing Director, and George was made a Life President of the Club in 2012. George passed away in July 2021at the age of 82.

John joined City as a player in 1962, and his performances at right-back were instrumental in promotion to Division 2. He left in July 1966 after 128 games, but had spells on the coaching staff in the late 70s and 80s. After being in joint charge, following the 87’ triumph Sillett took sole charge of team affairs, achieving 10th, 7th and 12th place finishes before leaving in November 1990. He would later scout for the Sky Blues, be a matchday host and Life President. John passed away in November 2021 at the age of 85.

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