Designed and created by the British Sculptor Eve Shepherd M.R.B.S, S.P.S, (www.eveshepherd.com) ‘The Last Post’ is a one-and-a-half times life size bronze statue, depicting the recognizable figure of Henry Allingham (6 June 1896-18 July 2009) who at the time of his death was one of the oldest surviving veterans of the First World War and from 2001 had been the Face of the First World War Veterans Association. Henry Allingham, like the veterans of many conflicts before and since, devoted much of his life to remembrance, working tirelessly to ensure the sacrifices of those who lived and died in World War One were not forgotten.

Commemorating the significant contribution made by Veterans of World War One and the many conflicts that have occurred in the world since then, ‘The Last Post’ will stand as a testament to the men and women who have fought and survived conflict. Those who, like Henry Allingham, have gone on to devote their lives to education and remembrance, connecting people with each other and with history, to ensure future generations have a real awareness of the past, and understand the sacrifices made by others to secure them a better future.

The National Memorial Arboretum have identified a premium site for ‘The Last Post’ outside their new visitor centre, saluting in perpetuity towards the National Armed Forces Memorial, and are keen to see the statue unveiled on or around the 3rd October 2018 in advance of the centenary for the end of the First World War taking place on 11th November 2018.

However, though The National Memorial Arboretum can provide the site and cover ongoing preservation costs for the memorial, we urgently need to identify the funds for production and installation of the piece. We are entirely dependent on donations and fundraising and are therefore seeking public support to facilitate the creation of this legacy for the nation by securing funding of £130,000 to cover the costs.

Once complete 'The Last Post' Statue will be handed over to The National Memorial Arboretum - A Unique Gift To The Nation From The Nation