A MILITARY artist will unveil his biggest and most poignant painting to date next week, as a tribute to the heroes of the First World War.

For the last nine months, ex-serviceman, John Palliser, of Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, has been working day and night on the oil painting, entitled World War 1914 to 1918.

The painting will remain under wraps until its grand unveiling at Gateshead Old Town Hall in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, at 3pm on Friday, August 8.

Measuring around 180cm by 140cm, the commemorative painting is highly detailed, highly symbolic and tells more than 100 stories of life in the trenches.

Mr Palliser, who served with the Royal Engineers and Royal Military before pursuing a career as an artist 30 years ago, said: “The painting puts together different stories with different perspectives so the observer can find something new each time they return to it.

“I wanted to commemorate the centenary of the First World War, respectively portraying the acts of extreme bravery, bloody obscenity and consequences of war.”

Members of the public are welcome to attend the unveiling ceremony, which will also feature musical entertainment and an exhibition of Mr Palliser’s work.

For more information or to enquire about exhibiting the painting contact Mr Palliser on 07412029848.