THE largest-ever table-top recreation of the Battle of Waterloo is to take place at a Scottish university in aid of military veterans.
The Great Game event at the University of Glasgow will replay one of the most epic and decisive battles in history on a purpose-built table recreation of the 1815 Belgium battlefield, and around 22,000 28mm figures.
Around 100 players will come from all over the world, along with veterans of recent wars, to see the re-match of the infamous battle that marked Napoleon Bonaparte’s final defeat.
Among those who have been painting the figures and table for the undertaking are pupils from Clydebank High School and veterans who attend The Erskine Reid Macewen Activity Centre in Bishopton.
Paul Hamilton, history teacher at Clydebank High School, said: “This has been a special undertaking for us and we are delighted to be involved. Waterloo was a pivotal and key historical event in world history.
“The Great Game and its painting clubs are therefore a fantastic way to engage and spark discussions on everything from the battle itself to its two iconic leaders – Napoleon and of course the Duke of Wellington, who somewhat bizarrely for us living in the west of Scotland is renowned for a statue and a certain traffic cone.”
The painting work has allowed the pupils and veterans to learn new skills to help them paint intricate detailing on the miniature infantry, cavalry and artillery figures.
The 28mm-high armies are historically accurate to the detailing on the uniforms and weaponry used in the battle from scabbards to muskets.
Evonne McCord, activities coordinator at The Erskine Reid Macewen Activity Centre and a Royal Engineers Reserves Veteran said: “The veterans at the Erskine Reid Macewen Activity Centre are delighted to be taking part in this event, we have been working on the models for a number of months now and enjoying the experience of being part of history.
“We are particularly excited to see the age range of participants and our model making group are reassured that the hobby is safe with the number of young people who have shown interest.
“The project has reminded the veterans of the sense of teamwork they experienced in the military, everyone working together towards a goal and supporting each other along the way. We look forward to the main event in June.”
All funds raised at the event, which takes place on June 15 and 16 at Glasgow University, will go to the Waterloo Uncovered charity for veterans and the military community.
Tickets can be purchased online from the following website: www.tinyurl.com/y2wacwwp.
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