30 life-sized World War II soldier silhouettes and 30 red poppy wreaths, created by Oxfordshire-based charity Standing with Giants, will be displayed on the iconic Broad Avenue in Cirencester Park this autumn from 22nd October to 6th December 2026, creating a poignant tribute to those who served and gave their lives for their country.
Founded by Dan and Janette Barton, Standing with Giants creates large-scale outdoor remembrance displays. The silhouettes are handmade from upcycled materials, with every display designed to honour the courage, service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces.
Standing with Giants installations have appeared at some of the UK’s most significant and historic locations, including Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, Hampton Court Palace, Blenheim Palace, Waddesdon Manor and National Trust Stowe.
The charity’s work has also reached audiences around the world through displays at the British Normandy Memorial in France, the Falkland Islands, Arnhem in the Netherlands and Brussels, bringing communities together through remembrance and education.
Dan Barton, Founder of Standing with Giants, who helped install the figures with a team of volunteers, says: “We are delighted to be bringing Standing with Giants to the beautiful surroundings of Cirencester Park this autumn. Our installations bring remembrance into communities, giving people the opportunity to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who gave so much for the freedom we enjoy today.
We hope this will be the beginning of a lasting relationship; we are already looking forward to the possibility of returning in 2027 with a much larger installation, creating an even more powerful and moving experience for visitors.”
On seeing the display take form, Lord Bathurst said: “We are honoured to welcome Standing with Giants to Cirencester Park. During the Second World War, a large section of Cirencester Park served as a major military hospital that treated over 11,000 patients, including D-Day casualties. As we approach Remembrance Day, we hope the display will encourage moments of reflection, spark conversations of remembrance across generations and provide a meaningful experience for all who visit.”
The installation will be accessible to visitors exploring Cirencester Park for a 6-week duration, during Park opening hours (08.00–17.00 daily). During this time, a programme of guided World War II walks will be available offering an opportunity to discover Cirencester Park’s role during the war and the people and events that shaped its history. Tickets will be available to book online.
During October half term, visitors can also watch local woodcarver Andy O’Neill create a commemorative bench at Fulham Bridge from a fallen cedar tree from Cirencester Park. Inspired by the Bathurst Estate’s Second World War heritage, including the famous Glenn Miller concert held in the Park in 1944, the bench will offer a place for reflection for future visitors.
Images: Rosie Bathurst
