A specially commissioned sculpture of the late Princess Grace is being unveiled by her son Prince Albert of Monaco in Newport this afternoon.

The sculpture was created by Mark Rode and a large crowd of people are expected to view it over the coming hours.

The artistic piece will be located on Castlebar Street at the entrance to Newport’s landmark seven arch viaduct.

American actress Grace Kelly (1929 – 1982), who retired from films in 1956 to marry Prince Rainier III of Monaco. She was killed in a car crash in 1982. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Prince Albert is said to have been significantly involved and he chose the final sculpture image.

A reception will be held after the unveiling ceremony at Hotel Newport with restricted access due to security protocols and measures.

Motorists have been advised that Castlebar Street is closed until 2pm, however, pedestrians will still be able to access the area.

In 2019, Newport Business Association initiated the idea of celebrating Newport as ‘The Town of the Two Graces’ – Grainne Uaile (Grace O’Malley) from the 16th century and Grace Kelly from the 20th century.

It was decided to commission sculptures of these two iconic women, who have such strong links with the town.

Princess Grace’s ancestors hailed from Drimurla, just outside Newport, and both the princess and her son have visited the area.

Princess Grace died at the age of 52 in Monaco in 1982 from injuries sustained in a car crash.