Winkie the Pigeon Honoured with Broughty Ferry Sculpture
09/11/23
A Broughty Ferry war heroine was honoured on Thursday (Nov 9) when a new sculpture was unveiled as part of the development of flood defences and active travel improvements beside the River Tay.
Winkie the Pigeon is the subject of a new bronze casting that now sits at the flood gates in Beach Crescent.
The pigeon was among the first recipients of the Dickin Medal for her role in the rescue of an aircrew following a crash into the North Sea in 1942.
The carrier pigeon flew over 100 miles home to Broughty Ferry to raise the alarm about the four crew members of the Beaufort bomber, which had been returning from a mission over Norway.
Relatives of Winkie’s owner George Ross attended a special ceremony on Thursday alongside Cubs from the local 49th Dundee Scout Group.
The Cubs were inspired by the bird’s bravery and had campaigned for a local commemoration.
The city council has installed the new sculpture as part of public art investment in flood protection and active travel improvements in the area.
Councillor Steven Rome, convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure, said: “It is fitting that Dundee’s latest piece of public art commemorates a special Broughty Ferry heroine – Winkie the pigeon.
“The tale of her exploits has inspired new generations over the decades and I would like to thank the 49th Cubs for playing an important role in securing this statue.
“It will help to ensure that the story of Winkie will never be forgotten.
“I am also pleased that relatives of George Ross have been able to attend this poignant event to unveil the statue, which is fittingly close to Remembrance Sunday.”
When Winkie died, her owner donated her and her Dickin Medal to Dundee Art Galleries and Museums.
Both can be seen today on display in The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum.
Instituted in 1943 by PDSA’s founder Maria Dickin CBE, the Dickin Medal acknowledges outstanding acts of bravery displayed by animals serving with the Armed Forces.
The full story of Winkie’s exploits can be found in this PDSA publication here
The bronze casting has been created by renowned Scottish sculptor David Annand.
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