Standing sentinel on Scarborough’s North Bay seafront, “Freddie Gilroy and the Belsen Stragglers” is one of Ray Lonsdale’s most poignant sculptures. Crafted from weathered steel, this monumental figure portrays Freddie Gilroy, a retired miner and one of the first soldiers to liberate Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in 1945. Lonsdale’s work speaks softly of trauma, endurance, and the quiet dignity of ordinary heroes, forever immortalised in contemplative repose on a bench overlooking the sea.
Captured here bathed in golden sunlight, Freddie’s figure glows with rich, rusty hues, lending warmth to the cold steel and emphasizing the intricate textures of the sculpture’s surface. The empty bench beside him invites passers-by to pause, sit, and reflect upon history, sacrifice, and humanity. This image beautifully encapsulates a moment of stillness against the vast coastal horizon—a tribute not just to one man, but to countless untold stories of war and survival.
Format: High-resolution digital download (JPEG)
Dimensions: Print-ready quality, suitable for large wall art
Location: North Bay, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England
Highlights: Powerful sculpture, golden hour light, historical tribute, coastal setting
Download Note: Perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts, or those seeking inspiring coastal imagery
This download is for personal use only. Commercial printing, resale, or redistribution is strictly prohibited. Photographer retains full copyright.