South Ayrshire Field of Heroes Opened with Moving Tribute at Wellington Square, Ayr
The South Ayrshire Field of Heroes, sponsored by Holmes Mackillop Solicitors, recently opened at Wellington Square, Ayr, with great success, bringing residents, visitors, veterans, cadets, and civic representatives together for a moving programme of remembrance, reflection, and storytelling.
The installation, which ran from 1 to 13 July at Wellington Square, commemorated the 110th Anniversary of the Somme, and featured over 140 military silhouettes by Standing with Giants, and for the first time includes silhouettes of the birds, dogs and horses that also served.
Although the weather was not at its best, the atmosphere throughout the opening was warm, respectful, and deeply heartfelt. 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 reenactment specialist, kindly shared his insights on what a “day in the life” of a normal soldier in World War 1 would be.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
ENDS
For further information please contact Ralph Riddiough on 01292 264 091