In a small paved area at the top of Wote Street stands a bronze sculpture officially called The Wote Street People, by Barry Mason. Erected in 1992 to celebrate Basingstoke's people and their working life, the abstract piece consists of two figures and a smaller object lifted between them. The nickname locals immediately gave it — Wote Street Willy — refers to the rather obvious phallic shape of the central form.
The artist has always insisted the small upright shape is a child being lifted by parents. The town council has occasionally tried to redirect attention to the official title. The nickname has survived everything, including a robust correction campaign by the local press. Worth a brief look on any walk through the town centre.