First World War 'Tommy' figures planned for north Preston roundabouts as Lancashire continues to mark the centenary year since the Great War ended
The North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce took to social media to reveal how it has ordered three six foot high figures, pictured inset, to be placed on three roundabouts on one of Preston’s busiest roads, Eastway in Fulwood.
The figures have been bought from charity There But Not There who have released a range of them this centenary year, with proceeds going to military charities.
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Hide AdBabs Murphy, chief executive of the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It’s only fitting that a campaign of this magnitude was launched to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the great war and to honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.”
The figures form part of the ‘Lancashire Campaign’ which has seen Tommy figures already placed at Preston railway station and in Lancaster and Accrington.
Ms Murphy added: “Our aim is for the business community to get behind this initiative and consider purchasing an iconic Tommy for placing either outside their premises, the entrance to industrial and business parks or in a public space.
“We hope that many businesses will follow suit and for several months leading up to armistice day will create a real interest for the general public to come and see these installations”.
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Hide AdRowley Gregg MC, Director of Operations at There But Not There, said: "The arrival of the Tommies to Preston is yet another milestone in Lancashire's outstanding commitment to remembering the fallen this year.
The county really has led the way in organising a rich, poignant programme of commemoration for people across the region to experience and remember those who gave their lives a century ago.”
Henny Cochrane, Director of Fundraising and Communications at There But Not There, said: "Our hope is that more parts of the UK follow the example of the NWLCC and Marketing Lancashire and purchase their own Tommy installations and that these installations inspire individuals to purchase a small 10 inch Tommy.
"Not only will this allow people to remember the Fallen but will also raise vital funds for today’s service personnel in need."