The South Ayrshire Field of Heroes, sponsored by Holmes Mackillop Solicitors, has been hailed a “true community event.”
The installation, at Wellington Square, Ayr, was met with great success, said organisers, bringing residents, visitors, veterans, cadets, and civic representatives together for a moving programme of remembrance, reflection, and storytelling.
Installation details
The installation ran from July 1 to 13, commemorated the 110th Anniversary of the Somme, and featured more than 140 military silhouettes by Standing with Giants. For the first time, it included silhouettes of the birds, dogs and horses that also served.
A spokesperson for Holmes Mackillop Solicitors said: “Although the weather was not at its best, the atmosphere throughout the opening was warm, respectful, and deeply heartfelt.”
Community involvement
“Visitors arrived to walk among the striking silhouettes, share personal and family stories, and listen to moving accounts of key events that took place during the Somme, from Commonwealth War Graves Commission experts.”
“A true community event, local historians have helped bring the installation to life with stories of people with a local connection to South Ayrshire who gave their lives during the First World War.”
“And Gareth Powell, a local re-enactment specialist, kindly shared his insights on what a “day in the life” of a normal soldier in World War 1 would be.”
Remembrance Service
A special Remembrance Service was led by Bishop Dougan and Rev David Gemmell, bringing together the Lord Lieutenant, the Provost, a representative from the Indian High Commission, cadets, ex-service organisations, and members of the wider community.
The service provided a dignified and powerful moment of collective remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Good Vibes Choir, based in the Abbotsford Hotel and led by Beatrice Clark, were on hand to provide a medley of songs for the occasion.
Sponsor comments
Ralph Riddiough, director and head of corporate at Holmes Mackillop, said: “We were delighted to honour the fallen through our corporate sponsorship of this profoundly moving event marking the sacrifices made by soldiers from South Ayrshire in the First World War.”
One of the many memorable moments of the opening was a surprise visit from two beautiful Clydesdale horses from Blackstone Clydesdales, Cumnock. Their presence was especially poignant, recognising the vital role horses played during the First World War and adding a further emotional dimension to the day.
Public response
Organisers have welcomed the strong public response, with visitors taking time to reflect, ask questions and share memories of relatives and local people connected to wartime service.
The Field of Heroes has quickly become a place not only of remembrance, but also of learning, conversation, and connection across generations.
