Brummies come together to say ‘Thank You’ to British soldiers on giant outdoor installation (40+ photos)

A giant eight-foot “THANK YOU” message has appeared in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, in the form of an interactive 3D art installation.

The Royal British Legion brought the structure to the city to encourage the public to leave messages of thanks to the First World War generation who shaped our society.

This year marks 100 years since the end of the First World War. To mark the centenary, The Royal British Legion has launched a movement to encourage the public to say ‘Thank You’ to the First World War generation who served, sacrificed and changed our world.

To kick off the movement, the Legion has created a spectacular ‘Thank You’ installation – 8ft high by 52ft long – which was unveiled on London’s South Bank by the Tate Modern earlier this month on Friday 3rd August, exactly 100 days from November 11th.

The installation was in place at Victoria Square in Birmingham yesterday, but only for one day, as part of a UK-wide tour.

The letters showcase a unique design by acclaimed artist, Sarah Arnett, which brings the war’s legacies to life. From Munitionettes to Sikh and Muslim infantrymen, schoolgirls working the fields and renowned war artist Paul Nash, a collage of images honours the diverse contribution of the First World War generation.

On the back of the letters the public have been invited to leave their own thoughts and messages of thanks to those who contributed a century ago. Many city locals and visitors added their messages to the letters, which already display similar notes from individuals in other cities on the tour.

The ‘Thank You’ movement is honouring not only the 1.2 million British and Commonwealth Armed Forces who lost their lives, but also those who played their part on the home front, and those who returned to build a better life for the benefit of generations to come.

Here’s over 40 photos of the ‘Thank You’ installation in Birmingham:

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For further information and to find out how you can get involved in the ‘Thank You’ movement, please visit rbl.org.uk/thankyou. Join in the conversation using #ThankYou100.