A CHRISTCHURCH residents' group has pulled funds together to pay respect to those who fought for their country in the First World War.

Members of Christchurch Citizens' Association (CCA) were pleased to reveal the Silent Soldier memorial on the Fountain Roundabout in the town centre.

The installation was funded by the residents' association and can be seen from the high street arm of the roundabout.

Silent Soldiers have been appearing across Dorset in recent months to mark 100 years since the end of the conflict.

The Royal British Legion campaign aims to highlight the sacrifices made by millions of men and women in the war.

At present the life-size silhouette in the town centre is the only one in place across the borough. Neighbouring town New Milton has several Silent Soldiers placed on roadsides and greenspaces.

Sue Bungey, chairman of CCA, said: "I think it is very important for us to pay respect to all those who served in the armed forces.

"The CCA are the first and possibly the only organisation in Christchurch to sponsor a Solent Soldier.

"We do hope that other organisations and hopefully our council take this opportunity to sponsor a soldier and place them in other locations throughout the borough as have other communities in and around Dorset and Hampshire.

"There are numerous other locations where a Silent Soldier could be placed. If anyone is interested in also commemorating this very special event please contact Christchurch Citizens Association or Wilbert Smith at Christchurch Council. The cost from the British Legion is £250, which is a small price to pay for such special piece of history."