It’s been quite a year for everyone’s favourite egotistical, silver-tongued, radio jock Alan Partridge and his beloved hometown of Norwich.
Following on from the city’s Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa movie premiere and the super success of the excellent film itself, Norwich has now honoured its favourite son (sorry, Ruel Fox) in the best possible way – by (temporarily) immortalising him in the form of giant Christmas lights with laser-beams shooting out of his eyes.
According to BBC Norfolk (yes,it is a real thing), Steve Coogan’s fictional DJ was unfortunately unable to attend as he was the “designated driver at a pub quiz.” He did send this message to the gathered locals though, which was read out by actor Simon Greenall, who played the character of Michael in the TV series and film.
It said: “Dear people of Norwich, and to a lesser extent anyone here from Suffolk – welcome!
“I’m genuinely heartbroken not to be there with you, but it’s quiz night at the Rose & Crown and I’m the designated driver.
“You’re about to witness the biggest turning on of lights since the end of the three-day week.
“The electricity used to power the illuminations is enough to run a trouser press for over 25 years.
“Instead, it’s powering an LED effigy of my face and body, lighting up the Christmas night just as the Archangel Gabriel did over two thousand years ago.
“I hope you have a wonderful festive season. A-ha.”
A perfect Partridge message we’re sure you’ll agree.
Check out the brilliant video and pictures of Alan’s 30ft high face below, which also ‘sings’ ‘Cuddly Toy’, Roachford’s 1980s hit which the classic character sang at opening of Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa.
You can check out JOE’s official review of the movie here as well as our interview with the film’s brilliantly bequiffed Irish director, Declan Lowney.
Photos via Jeremy Durkin and BBC Norfolk.
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