Buy a Silent Soldier and support the British Legion
Chilcotts Auctioneers are selling Honiton’s ‘Silent Soldiers’, raising funds for the Royal British Legion.
The seven silhouette soldiers had been on display around the town during the approach to Armistice Day, guarding the gateways to the town and attracting lots of attention from the media and visitors.
They were part of a campaign by the Royal British Legion asking the public to say ‘thank you’ to the First World War generation who served, sacrificed, rebuilt and changed the nation. 4,000 Silent Soldiers were made for the campaign.
Duncan Chilcott said: “A representative from the local Royal British Legion visited us with this unusual request which we were delighted to agree to.
“We will be selling the silent soldiers without charging vendor commission, so all proceeds will go to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.”
The silhouettes are all based on an iconic image of a ‘Tommy’, the never forgotten image of a British soldier, with the words ‘Lest we Forget’ on the base. They are almost life-size and can be fixed to a wall or post. Their new owners may prefer to keep their Silent Soldier private or remain on view in a public space.
“The Royal British Legion has been approached by potential buyers worldwide, so everyone is hoping the sale of the soldiers will raise a high amount for the charity,” added Duncan.
The auction estimate is £60-80 each.
The silhouette soldiers are being sold in Chilcotts Fine Art, Antiques and Collectors Items sale on December 1 at the Silver Street sale room in Honiton, close to Honiton Community College. Viewing is on Thursday, 9:30am to 5pm, Friday 9:30am to 7pm and on Sale Day from 8:30am. The sale starts at 10:30am.
Viewing and live online bidding will also be available via the-saleroom.com
