A POIGNANT reminder of the local heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War has been installed close to a village war memorial to mark a century since the end of the conflict.
Harborough District Council has installed the striking metal figure next to the War Memorial in Broughton Astley.
The sculpture depicts a ‘Tommy’ – a British soldier – who stands thoughtfully, head bowed, rifle in hand, as he reflects upon the sheer horror of the war as peace is declared in 1918.
Council leader Coun Neil Bannister said: “I was proud to be associated with the provision by Harborough District Council of this WWI silhouette for the residents of Broughton Astley.
“It is vitally important we recall the great sacrifices made during the War and this ‘there but not there’ silhouette is a moving reminder.
“I thank the parish of Broughton Astley for agreeing to have this commemorative piece in their Memorial Gardens to mark the anniversary of the ending of the Great War 100 years ago.”
It is anticipated that two more silhouettes will be installed, funded by Broughton Astley Parish Council and Broughton Alive, as well as a World War I bench in the village centre funded by the district and parish councils. A World War II bench funded by the parish council will also be installed in the village.
Broughton Astley Parish Council vice-chairman Coun Colin Porter said: “This silhouette is particularly thought-provoking and I’m sure it will remind people of the local soldiers who gave their lives.
“I’m looking forward to the other silhouettes being installed; it will be especially poignant during the annual memorial service held there.”
The installation is part of the district council’s plans to commemorate the centenaries of the end of the First World War, and of the 1918 Representation of the People Act which gave women the right to vote.
Other plans, as part of the commemorations, include naming streets after those who fought in the 1914-1918 war and/or women who fought for the right to vote, and an art installation.
