Fusiliers' historic animal mascot statue unveiled by the Duke of Kent at Warwick Castle

The Duke of Kent has unveiled a new statue of the famous Indian black buck antelope honouring the Royal Warwickshire Regiment, today known as the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.

Created by artist and sculptor Knox Field, the magnificent statue was unveiled in the grounds of Warwick Castle in front of veterans and the Duke, the regiment's Colonel-in-Chief.

"It's been a real honour, it's my first piece of public sculpture," said Mr Field.

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The statue has been affectionately given the name 'Bobby'. 

Mr Field said: "It's a black buck antelope, and it is the mascot for the Royal Warwickshire Regiment.

"We've heard it's been on their pin for over 300 years.

"Creating the sculpture has been very important to stay true to that pin, whilst maintaining a bit of a reality of the animal."

The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers was formed in 1968 from the Royal Warwickshire Fusiliers, Northumberland Fusiliers, Lancashire Fusiliers, and the Royal Fusiliers.

The regiment was first raised in 1674 and was originally named the 6th Regiment of Foot.

Their black buck antelope is one of the few wild animal regimental mascots in the British Army.

The new statue has been created to honour the memory of members of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment who lost their lives in the service of their country.

Mr Knox added: "I have it at such a prestigious location and being unveiled by the Duke of Kent. What more can you say? It's amazing."