By Chris Story

Last updated at 14:43, Tuesday, 22 June 2010

An impressive sculpture symbolising the significance of Gretna Green – and wider life – was officially unveiled yesterday.

Amanda and Andrew Watson at The Big Dance

The Big Dance has been installed at the World Famous Old Blacksmith’s Shop in the marriage mecca.

It is hoped the 13ft-tall structure, depicting two clasped hands, will form an impressive backdrop for the 700,000 people who visit the attraction every year.

The piece was commissioned by Alasdair Houston, executive chairman of Gretna Green Group, the family-run company that owns the complex.

It was brought to life by highly-acclaimed County Durham artist Ray Lonsdale, who made it of weathering steel, the same material used on the Angel of the North.

The ribbon on The Big Dance was unveiled by newlyweds Amanda and Andrew Watson, of Belfast, who had just tied the knot over the anvil yesterday afternoon.

Local children then celebrated the occasion with their own big dance.

Mr Houston believes the sculpture is capable of interpretation on many levels –whether the hands are coming together or parting, whether it is a joyful or sad embrace, one of friendship or love.

He said Gretna Green was also the place where the nations of Scotland and England meet up and join hands.

The steel material used on the piece maintains the blacksmith’s link with the village’s history.

Mr Lonsdale has explained that, in creating The Big Dance, he and Mr Houston wanted to have something that had meaning for wedding couples, but took that beyond the union of marriage to wider life.

The sculpture at the Old Blacksmith’s Shop was officially unveiled as plans continue to be driven forward for an iconic artistic landmark on the Scotland-England border.

First published at 11:21, Tuesday, 22 June 2010
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk