Giant landmark art created at Whitby Abbey to celebrate UK heritage

A sprawling land-artwork – measuring in at 5,400 square meters (the size of four Olympic swimming pools) has been unveiled at Whitby Abbey today (Tuesday 1st October).

It's to mark the 30th birthday of The National Lottery and was unveiled by the actor and broadcaster Sir Tony Robinson.

It commemorates the achievements of seven Game Changers to recognise their impact on heritage and conservation with the help of National Lottery players who raise £30 million every week for good causes.

Game Changers

The seven ‘Game Changers’ who inspired the artwork are:

Sir Tim Smit, co-founder of The Eden Project.

Arthur Torrington CBE, co-founder of the Windrush Foundation.

Teresa Anderson MBE, Director of Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement.

Chantelle Lindsay, presenter, Project Officer with the London Wildlife Trust and advocate for diversity and inclusivity in wildlife.

Sandy Bremner, convener for the National Parks Authority.

Lisa Power MBE, trailblazer for LGBTQIA+ rights and Pride Cymru volunteer.

Heidi McIlvenny, project leader for Ulster Wildlife's Sea Deep initiative until June 2022.

Sir Tony Robinson said:

“Given the hugely important work of all seven, I am deeply honoured to support The National Lottery’s celebration of these extraordinary people. Across the spectrum of our heritage and conservation, the impact of the causes and projects championed by these Game Changers is evident - and the role The National Lottery has played in making this possible has been vital. I’m proud to help celebrate their 30th birthday in such a meaningful way."

Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive officer, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:

“Our heritage is incredibly diverse, from archaeology under our feet to the historic parks and buildings we love, from precious memories and collections to sweeping landscapes and rare wildlife.

“At the root of each part of our heritage are people. People who believe in the value of heritage, who dedicate their lives to preserving and enriching it for all to enjoy, people who are game changers for heritage.

“The creation of a stunning ‘Heritage Tree’ installation at Whitby Abbey honours seven of those extraordinary Game Changers and beautifully symbolises the deep roots and ever-growing impact of each, reflecting our shared ambition to strengthen heritage. It’s thanks to players of The National Lottery over the last 30 years, and those to come, that our shared heritage will be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future.”

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