Phoenix remembrance sculpture at nature reserve

Tom BurgessBBC News, North East and Cumbria
News imageRSPB A detailed metal phoenix head with wings stretching out on either side. The feathers are smooth and can be engraved with dedications.RSPB
The memorial sculpture was created by Andrew McKeown

A phoenix memorial sculpture has been installed in the walled garden of a nature reserve.

Visitors to RSPB Saltholme, Stockton, can pay for individual feathers and have them engraved in dedication to someone.

The 5ft (1.5m) tall phoenix was created by Andrew McKeown out of galvanised steel and corten steel for the flames below.

Chris Francis, nature reserve manager, said he was "thrilled" to have the sculpture in the walled gardens as a symbol of remembrance.

A small feather costs £200, a medium is £250 and a large is £300.

All money raised will be used to support the conservation work being carried out at RSPB Saltholme.

News imageRSPB A wider view of the full steel phoenix sculpture. It has outstretched wings above a bed of flames. The feathers that make up its wings are made of three sizes, growing larger the further out on the wing they are.RSPB
The first feathers will be installed on the phoenix in October

Eight feathers have been sold already and they will be installed in October.

Mr Francis said: "We're thrilled to unveil our stunning new Phoenix Sculpture, a powerful symbol of renewal, remembrance, and hope.

"Rising proudly in the walled garden at RSPB Saltholme this beautiful piece invites reflection and a connection to the area's industrial past."

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