Organisers of the Licoricia of Winchester appeal are mulling over what to do with the statue's plaque after Prince Charles' late withdrawal from Thursday's highly anticipated unveiling.

The Prince of Wales looked all but set to reveal the sculpture but was forced to cancel just minutes before the big event after returning a positive Covid test.

READ MORE: The best photos from the Licoricia unveiling 

In a message which was relayed to the disappointed spectators who had lined Jewry Street for his pending arrival, Prince Charles said: "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm so sorry I'm not able to be with you today. I'm desperately disappointed as I was looking forward to making a historic occasion with you."

The honours were instead passed on to Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, who unveiled the sculpture of the medieval Jewish figure and her son with the help of schoolchildren from Park Community School in Havant.

Questions have since been asked of what will happen to the statue's plaque, which is engraved with the words: "To commemorate the unveiling of the statue of Licoricia by HRH The Prince of Wales."

SEE ALSO: Licoricia statue unveiled in Winchester without Prince Charles

Responding on behalf of The Licoricia of Winchester appeal, Tony Stoller said: "The Licoricia of Winchester Appeal trustees are considering what to do in respect of the plaque, and we will be consulting with Clarence House and the Hampshire County Council before coming to a final decision."

Despite the obvious blip, the reveal marked the culmination of over five years of hard work coupled with a substantial fundraising campaign which will now support educational programmes as part of Licoricia's legacy.

Speaking on the day, Simon Sebag-Montefiore, a best-selling author and patron of the Licoricia of Winchester Appeal, said: "It is of course hugely frustrating Prince Charles couldn't make it today, but I wish him a speedy recovery and I know he will be good to his word and will return to see the statue as soon as he's able to. Today was still incredibly special, there were crowds here, members of the council, representatives of many different faiths and religions and a lot of people from London, too. It was a great day to celebrate cosmopolitan Hampshire and a special thing to see. The statue is finally here and I want to say 'welcome back Licoricia'."

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