Jaws lookalike exhibits 007 sculptures in Newcastle this week
13-May-2010 • Event
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A "professional double" for the legendary villain, the 7ft 3in Geordie giant has created a collection of sculptures from the world-renowned Bond films to be shown at Newcastleâs Biscuit Factory later this week.
He has made models of Sean Connery, Jaws, Daniel Craigâs torso and the Golden Girl by moulding and bashing together wire mesh, with a hammer.
Animals including seagulls, sharks and the Alnwick Percy Lion, costing up to £2,500, also decorate the gallery.
The 49-year-old, from Walkerville, Newcastle, said: âThis is a very unique subject and it is very exciting to be able to show my work in the North East, my home. It has given me a real buzz.
âThis is something I love doing. James Bond is a worldwide product and this has already created so much interest. It is brilliant.â
Gary has been mad on sculpting ever since his days working as a chef at Newcastleâs County Hotel, where he would make decorations out of sugar, ice and margarine. Twenty-five-stone Gary has already shown his work at Tynemouth Metro station.
Gary was diagnosed with acromegaly in his late teens, a hormonal disorder which produces excess growth hormone.
He weighed 16lbs when he was born and had to wear clothes for six-month-old babies. Now he wears size 16 shoes.
The condition meant he had to stop working in kitchens, but he has made a name for himself as a Jaws lookalike touring the world and appearing in films.
Gary said: âI had a horrible time growing up as people used to comment about Jaws. But I have put that behind me now and have continued to push myself. I never thought I would achieve what I have. The way I am has given me so many opportunities including travelling around the world. I have stayed at amazing hotels, and partied in far out locations that millionaires donât even find.
âEven when I was a chef people called me Jaws, and I have cooked for the Queen.â
Gary is so convincing he once fooled Braveheart Aussie Mel Gibson into believing he was real-life Jaws actor Richard Kiel.
He will be showcasing his latest work made from wire mesh during the Late Shows on Friday and Saturday.
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