KEY POINTS:
The iconic Bulford Kiwi in England has received a slight buff and polish.
The massive chalk landmark is carved on to Beacon Hill in Wiltshire, about 200km southwest of London. The giant kiwi was carved into the hill to commemorate the use of Sling Camp by the New Zealand Expeditionary Force from 1914 to 1918. The kiwi is 128m high and has a 46m long beak.
Volunteers, some from New Zealand, personnel from the Bulford-based 3 (UK) Division Signal Regiment and the New Zealand High Commission were joined by local scouts, Wiltshire Army Cadets and the local Ministry of Defence conservation group to clean the design by scraping its grey gravel surface to expose the white chalk below. Due to its size, contractors will now complete the clean-up.
Designed by Sergeant Major Percy Blenkarne of the Education Staff at the end of the World War I, the chalk feature has been maintained by various organisations over the years, including the Kiwi boot polish company. Wiltshire has some famous chalk figures, including several white horses. The oldest is the Westbury white horse. Many believe the initial carving was made to commemorate King Alfred's victory over the Danes at the battle of Ethandune in 878.
Besides the Bulford Kiwi, a number of military badges have been carved into the hills, dug by soldiers during their stay in the area.
