AN extraordinary sculpture of a Royal Engineers “Sapper” has been given pride of place at the entrance to the regiment’s head quarters in Warrington.
The striking 6ft high commissioned piece has been carved using a chainsaw and chisel by North West sculptor Martin Bednarczuk.
It depicts a “Sapper”, or private soldier from the Royal Engineers, dressed in modern style and is based on the famous Terence Cuneo painting of the Second Battle of El Alamein.
The 75 Engineer Regiment (Volunteers) last year became the new residents of the barracks in O’Leary Street, Warrington, which had previously been a base for Territorial Army infantry and the sculpture is seen as a fitting way to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the formation of 75 Engineer Regiment, which also occurred during 2007.
Lt Col Sean Harris, Commanding Officer, 75 Engineer Regiment (Volunteers) said: “75 Engineer Regiment moved its headquarters last year from Manchester to Warrington and inherited an infantry barracks.
“It was very important in stamping our identity in the area that we looked at commissioning a piece which was very specifically Royal Engineers.
“Of all the engineering roles that we carry out, mine clearance is synonymous with the Corps. Martyn has managed to produce a beautiful piece and where it currently stands in the RHQ entrance, with the back lighting, not only does it clearly show us as a Royal Engineers regiment within Warrington, it also serves as a great conversation piece and gives something for the soldiers to be proud about.”
Pictures show the sculpture and sculptor Martin Bednarczuk with Lt Col Harris.
