An artist’s tribute to those who gave their lives in the Great War has been unveiled at Tatton Park.

Macclesfield-born Alex Blakey’s Commemorative Flame will take pride of place outside the gates of the Tatton mansion for the next four years.

It features a flame inside a glass surround which includes words and images inspired by stories and photographs from Cheshire East soldiers who fought and died in the war.

The sculpture was unveiled at a ceremony on Monday, the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the war, which was attended by the leader of Cheshire East Council, councillors Michael Jones.

Alex Blakeys

Alex was commissioned to create a piece by Cheshire East Reflects, an ongoing programme to commemorate the centenary of WW1 run by Cheshire East Council.

Alex said: “The piece will allow visitors to Tatton Park and the flame to gain a glimpse into the lives of the local people during the First World War.

“The flame represents an eternal memory. Seeing the flame through the glass represents how we picture the war, with slightly blurred vision. Time and memory may distort the images, but those images will never be extinguished from our hearts and minds.

“Visitors can view the flame literally through the words and pictures of those who were there.”

The commemorative flame will stand outside until November 11, 2018, the date of the Armistice, when it will be moved inside the mansion.

Alex grew up in Macclesfield and went on to study at Manchester Metropolitan University where she trained in 3D design, it was there she developed a passion for and talent working with glass.

After graduating she moved to London to learn more about the glass industry.

She now runs her own business and studio Alx Creations, which is based in Huddersfield.

She specialises in homeware, installations and architectural work.