1988 March: 'White Horse Pacified' West Swindon's largest public sculpture unveiled

In early 1988 community artist Julie Livsey aimed to complete her large steel and concrete sculpture, White Horse Pacified, by mid-February.

But gale force winds and heavy rain played havoc with her efforts and the Mayor of Thamesdown Peter Owen and council leader Tony Mayer had to unveil the work under the cover of a large tent.

Julie said her work, funded by the Gulbenkian Foundation, represented the ancient 'God Like' horses cut into the landscape around Swindon.

The public were able to see the striking sculpture in Quarry Park, off Cartwright Drive, Shaw, in mid-March 1988. For several years it could be viewed from Mead Way. Now it is overshadowed by surrounding trees and hidden from passing traffic.

Although there have been a few attempts to clean the imposing landmark, and large willows which were saplings when the White Horse was unveiled were cut back in 2018, the work needs a major makeover, rediscovered and promoted as an important feature in Swindon's cultural landscape.