Depicting Sunderland POW Len Gibson, who passed away aged 101 in 2021 and inspired so many in his long life, the piece was unveiled at a moving ceremony at South Shields Town Hall.
5. Grand unveiling
Ray’s new sculpture was unveiled on Friday, August 15 at South Shields Town Hall, after which there’s plans to install the sculpture in North Marine Park permanently from December. | National World
6. Honouring the Forgotten Army
Daft as a Brush Cancer Patient Care boss, Brian Burnie, who was a long time friend of Len’s, privately funded this moving tribute to all those prisoners of war, many of whom perished. Brian organises an annual VJ Day Memorial Walk on August 15, this year from Newcastle Civic Centre to South Shields Town Hall, after which the sculpture was unveiled. | National World
7. Paying our respects
South Tyneside Council Leader Cllr Tracey Dixon was among those who laid wreathes. | National World
8. The Forces Family
The service was attended by veterans, serving Forces Personnel, dignitaries and Len's family. “This year is very different”, says 81-year-old Mr Burnie. “It’s the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan and marks the official end of the Second World War. This wonderful statue by Ray Lonsdale is such a moving tribute to all those who never came home and to those veterans who suffered so much.” Centenarian veterans Mr Dennis Carr and Mr Tom Davidson were on hand to unveil the statue. | National World