Chelmsford’s leaf ‘Tommy’ in Centenary vigil

A foliage sculpture of a soldier stands in Chelmsford, Essex, among several memorials created by the city council in parks and green spaces for the final year of the First World War Centenary.

Surrounded by red begonias with silver edging, the Tommy is covered in green carpet bedding, representing a soldier with head bowed during the Last Post in a field of Flanders poppies.

The soldier’s vigil is expected to continue until claimed by approaching winter frosts after the Armistice Centenary in November.

Three new steel benches, featuring a design of poppies and doves with the words ‘Lest we Forget’, have also been provided at the site next to the War Memorial in Chelmsford’s Central Park.

Councillor Bob Massey, Cabinet Member for Parks, said, “2018 is the final year of First World War Centenary commemorations, which are taking place across the globe. In one way or another, the war touched the lives of almost everyone in the countries that took part and resulted in the deaths of more than nine million soldiers. With these installations, Chelmsford remembers their sacrifice.”

Source: Chelmsford City Council

Images: Centenary News

Posted by CN Editorial Team