THE silhouette of a First World War 'Tommy' soldier has been installed outside City of York Council as part of a poignant campaign in memory of the 888,246 British and Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict.

The installation is part of the national There But Not There project raising money for Armed Forces and mental health charities.

Cllr Keith Aspden, Executive member for economic development and community engagement said: "York has a deep-rooted connection with the armed forces and it is vital that we, as a city, commemorate the men and women who gave their lives during the First World War and furthermore, pay our respects to those who serve today. The tommy statue is a haunting reminder of the sacrifice so many people made during the war and it is fitting that by supporting the initiative we’re able to help today’s servicemen and women and those with mental health issues."