Long Boi: York Student Association raises funds for statue of iconic duck

Long Boi, a mallard-Native American runner cross who went viral on social media for being unusually tall at 2ft 4in, was not seen on the University of York’s west campus, where he lived, for two months.

The university has now concluded that he must have died.

The University of York Students’ Union has now launched a campaign with a fundraising goal of £10,000 to commission and install a life-size bronze statue of Long Boi in his memory, at the request of students and the wider community.

On the crowdfunding pagePierrick Roger, President of the University’s Student Union, said: “It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of the most valued member of the York community, our beloved Long Boi.”

Continue reading:

“For many, Long Boi was much more than just a very long duck or just another university mascot. His 2ft 4in put a smile on all of us and made us realize it was okay to be a little different and we already miss him for that.

“His loss will be felt widely and we know he can never be replaced. His royal dignity was the king of campus west, the ruler of the lake, the pride and joy of the students.”

The exact location of the statue is yet to be confirmed, but it will be on the university campus.

Long Boi RIP (Image: submitted)

The union has introduced a tier system for fundraising. If less than £1,000 is raised, the money will be donated to a good cause within the university; up to £2,000 will be used to install a memorial bench with a plaque commemorating Long Boi; while £2,000 or more is earmarked for the creation of the statue.

The student union has committed to donating excess funds to charities within the university, either to Mentally Fit York – a mental health improvement fund – or to a Travel Abroad Award in the form of a York Futures grant named after Long Boi.

Pierrick added: “Long Boi was held in such high esteem by so many and we want to ensure our memorial reflects that.”

“He was loved by everyone and was a true celebrity, on par with the likes of James Corden and Greg James.”

“Although Long Boi became a pop cult icon for many, his popularity also brought the importance of caring for our animal neighbors on campus and protecting wildlife into the mainstream.

“Thank you to everyone who helped us make this a reality. Long live Long Boi.”

Please help the students to commission the statue Click here Donate.