Sculpture to immortalise war hero

Major General Sir Andrew Hamilton Russell was a renowned Hawke's Bay-born general.

A bronze sculpture of a World War I military leader is planned to be unveiled at next year's Anzac Day services in Hastings' Civic Square.

Major General Sir Andrew Hamilton Russell was a renowned Hawke's Bay-born general.

A Hastings District Council spokesman said a sculpture of Sir Andrew would be cast, following a $60,000 grant from the Lottery Grants Board.

A further $9950 grant from the Lottery Fund would go towards the 2015 Anzac Day services at Civic Square, which would be enhanced in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the landing of New Zealand forces at Gallipoli during WWI.

Planning was under way to have the sculpture of Sir Andrew unveiled during the services in April next year.

Hastings Deputy Mayor Cynthia Bowers said Sir Andrew was one of the district's most prominent war heroes.

"[The sculpture] will be a lasting tribute to a man who gave distinguished service at Gallipoli and in other theatres of war during WWI.

"Sir Andrew continued his pre-war association with the region when he returned from military service to farm Tuna Nui Station, at the foot of the Kaweka Ranges at Sherenden in Hastings District. He was also an influential figure during the early years of the Returned Services Association."