A LIFE-SIZE model of Polish-born war hero General Stanislaw Maczek created in clay has been approved by fundraisers.
The figure, on a bench, was made by Polish sculptor Bronislaw Krzysztof following a public appeal to recognise the war efforts of the General and his Polish Armoured Tank Division.
The sculpture will now be cast in bronze before being brought to Edinburgh where it will be placed in the courtyard at the entrance to the City of Edinburgh Council Chambers close to The Royal Mile war memorial.
General Maczek made Edinburgh his home for the last 50 years of his life as he was unable to return to his Poland homeland under the communist regime.
He was Commander of the 1st Polish Armoured Division and appointed by Winston Churchill to defend Scotland’s east coast from potential invasion, and played a key role in the Battle of Normandy preventing the retreat of thousands of German soldiers and with his men liberated parts of France, Belgium and Holland.
READ MORE: £5,000 gift from 12,000 miles away helps Scots tribute to Polish war hero
Archie Mackay, a fundraising trustee, said: “Seeing the figure full size in clay was a memorable experience.
"The sculptor has worked from photographs supplied by us and has done considerable additional research."
Above: Bronislaw Krzysztof in his studio
He added: "We have now given approval for the next phase of the process which will ultimately lead to casting in bronze.
READ MORE: Polish general takes his seat in history outside City Chambers
"The statute will be in place by early November in time for the 100th anniversary celebrations of Poland regaining independence."
Above: Katie Fraser took on role of trustee of the charity set up by her father
The late Lord Fraser of Carmyllie launched a public appeal which has been continued by family and friends, and in March, the Polish Government pledged £18,000 to the project and funding has now broken the £80,000 barrier, just £5,000 short of target.
The trustees said they are confident sufficient funds will be forthcoming and have set a closing date for donations of July 31.
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