‘Disappearing’ Soldier Sculpture Takes Up Post at Bamburgh Castle for VE Day

A soldier sculpture has been installed on the battlements of Bamburgh Castle to mark Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 May.

Image – Andy Craig

Known as “George”, the life-size figure is a tribute to those who served in the First and Second World Wars and in conflicts since.

The sculpture is constructed from more than 100 vertical Corten steel plates, spaced to create an optical effect. From the front, the plates align to form a solid figure. But from other angles the gaps cause the figure to partially disappear.

The piece was created by metal fabricator Christopher Bryceland of C B Iron, a Royal Engineers veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and developed as an alternative form of remembrance.

Christopher said: “George is named after my grandfather, but he stands for everyone who has served in the Armed Forces. He’s designed to catch your eye and make you look twice. From a distance you see a soldier, but as you move past, he disappears. That effect represents those who have been lost, while his reappearance reflects how the fallen stay in our memory.”

The sculpture is made from the same weathering steel used in the Angel of the North and is designed to change over time.

Unlike traditional memorials, the sculpture is designed to move between locations, continuing its role as a travelling tribute.

Christopher added: “VE Day can sometimes be overlooked compared to Remembrance Day. Placing George at one of the region’s best-loved landmarks is about raising awareness and encouraging people to reflect on the significance of VE Day.”

Francis Watson-Armstrong, owner of Bamburgh Castle, said: “It’s an honour to have Christopher’s sculpture standing sentinel here at Bamburgh Castle to mark VE Day. George is a striking focal point and a fitting reminder of the courage, sacrifice and resilience shown by servicemen and women.”

The sculpture is on display at Bamburgh Castle and can be viewed daily.