A SCULPTURE made from recycled horseshoes is to be unveiled this weekend.

The Pershore War Horse Memorial Project is the brainchild of resident Sue Cosnett and is backed by Wychavon District Council. The Warhorse Memorial Sculpture, made by local blacksmith Steven Cooper, is a lasting memory to servicemen and women, and animals, who died in wars. Following a year of fundraising events, sponsorship and generous donations from supporters, including some abroad, the project has now been completed.

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The lifesize sculpture of a horse is made from horse shoes, many of which have been donated, including one from the First World War. It is accompanied by a farrier and beneath the sculpture the ashes from a Royal Military Police dog called Chief will be interred.

After it is revealed, Pershore’s Vicar, Reverend Claire Lording, will bless the sculpture at 1pm this Saturday, November 9, in the company of representatives from various military organisations, local dignitaries, and local fundraisers. Many supporters are also bringing their horses to pay their respects. The fund raised more than £13,000 and after payment for the sculpture and all expenses incurred, any excess funds will be donated to Combat Stress, the Armed Forces Mental Health charity. Local children were also invited to design a purple poppy which commemorates all animals who were lost or suffered at war. Competition winners will be presented with a keepsake after the blessing. The design of the overall winner will be depicted on the memorial stone which accompanies the sculpture. All entries will be displayed in Pershore Library for a week for everyone to see.

Ms Cosnett said: “Come and see this magnificent sculpture. This project would not have succeeded without the amazing support of the local community and we want as many people as possible to be there to celebrate the revealing of the sculpture."