Yorkshire-based manufacturer ACS Stainless Steel Fixings is raising money for the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) again this autumn, with its fourth annual steel Silhouette Soldiers Remembrance Day campaign.
The 2024 initiative aims to raise more funds than ever with a new order system that invites donations in exchange for a free steel soldier. This year also sees the soldiers created in a brand-new design – with the new silhouette honouring those from ‘The Paras’ – Britain’s Elite Airborne Infantry. The new design was unveiled at an ABF event in Liverpool this week; ABF is the national charity of the British Army, providing a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans and their immediate families.
ACS has already created over 630 soldiers since 2021 – each of them distributed in communities across the UK. The soldiers are available in four sizes ranging from 150mm, 310mm, 600mm and 1500mm in height and the cut-off date for orders is Monday 4th November. For the second year running, DX Group is also supporting the campaign by delivering the soldiers across the country.
David Flannery, ACS’s managing director, said: “We’re thrilled to launch our Steel Soldiers campaign for 2024, and we look forward to welcoming businesses and individuals across the country to place an order. We’re also delighted that we’ve once again the support of fabulous advocates in DX Group, plus the ongoing support of the Army Benevolent Fund – who do amazing work across the UK.
“This project is close to the hearts of all at ACS and it’s a joy to welcome more companies on board with our quest to raise much-needed funds for the ABF. Here’s to 2024’s efforts being our best yet!”
Over the last three years, apprentices in ACS’s Leeds-based factory have created over 630 soldier silhouettes, raising £7700 for charity so far.
Nicola Peat, regional sales manager at DX Group added: “It was an honour to transport the steel silhouettes of our war heroes throughout the UK in 2023 and we are very happy to offer our support by delivering again this year. We wish ACS the very best in its admirable efforts.”
ACS has now launched its call to action for those wishing to order free steel soldiers for Remembrance Day events and orders can be placed here. This year donations will be requested in advance with a suggested contribution towards dispatching a soldier, whilst there will also be some non-contributary soldiers available for community groups, churches, people with a low income or schools.
Jim Duffy of the Army Benevolent Fund concluded: “This initiative is so important for the Army Benevolent Fund, which since 1944 has supported soldiers, former soldiers and their family’s facing hardship and need. Last year we helped 75,000 people in the UK and 50 other countries around the world – so any support from partners really helps us out.
“As we mark our 80th anniversary this year, we would like to thank ACS, DX Group and everyone involved in this fantastic initiative – something which will help us support soldiers, both past and present.”
In addition to the Steel Soldiers campaign, ACS has a long history of supporting ex-service people with the company guaranteeing a face-to-face interview for anyone who has served in the UK military and has signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2021 – it’s a promise ACS upholds to help veterans and their families.
ACS is a leading manufacturer and designer of structural building components, including but not exclusive to wall ties, windposts, masonry support and brick slip systems – all essential components used for the construction of modern-day structures, large or small. The 117-strong team operate from a factory in Yorkshire.
