THE DEDICATION of a newly reopened memorial commemorating fallen soldiers saw a good turnout.

The Buckley Public Art Memorial Project is coming to its conclusion this month as the piece of artwork is installed at Precinct Way near Aldi, on the site of the old Royal British Legion site.

Video and pictures by Craig Colville

Members of the public turned out for official reopening and dedication event on Saturday.

Led by a community steering group and following an open call and a period of consultation with the community, Nottingham-based sculptor Richard Janes was commissioned to create a stainless steel sculpture.

The design was chosen to have appearance of wings and has multiple meanings as the dove of peace and guardian angel - as well as references to traditional War memorials - but bringing a contemporary edge. The wings also include designs made by pupils from Elfed High School.

Councillor Andrew Dunbobbin, Flintshire Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “This beautiful artwork has been commissioned and selected by the local community to commemorate fallen soldiers.

“Pupils from Ysgol Elfed, members of the Royal British Legion, and Section 106 planning money from the Aldi development were instrumental in selecting the artist Richard Janes who has created a fitting sculpture in this 100th year since the end of the First World War.”

Buckley Royal British Legion chairman Steve Evans said: “Since the club was demolished the site of the memorial has been in disrepair and we’re glad to have been working alongside members of the community to reshape the memorial and make it a site worthy of remembering those from Buckley who paid the ultimate sacrifice.”

Buckley Town Mayor Councillor David Ellis, who is a member of the steering group, added: “We’re very proud to have been working with the community to decide on the artwork that’s being installed at the old Royal British Legion site.”