Fusilier creates emotional armed forces tribute

Date published: 03 November 2018

A Fusilier from Wardle has created a poignant tribute to the armed forces, filling the village with pride.

Stephen Cooney spent all summer creating his own special soldier tributes in his garden, recognising the World War One centenary, plus the 50th anniversary of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, which combined the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, Warwickshire Fusiliers, the Royal London Fusiliers and the Lancashire Fusiliers.

The Rochdale Parade Marshall’s Great War tribute features silhouettes walking through fields of poppies.

Mr Cooney, who wore his hackle for 25 years, finishing as Sergeant Major, said: “The left-hand side is for the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, which consists of eight silhouettes. There are four on either side of the regimental flag representing the past regiments which amalgamated to form the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in 1968.

“At the front are silhouettes of the tomb of the unknown soldier, guarded by four of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers’ soldiers.”

Mr Cooney added: “The First World War was the theme for Pennines In Bloom which I got involved in, because I thought it should be recognised and remembered. The response was amazing, which then inspired me to go on and do the Fusilier memorial.”

Mr Cooney has also created similar silhouettes for Empire and The Flying Horse Hotel in Rochdale town centre, plus a comparable display for a friend on Moss Avenue.