Tiger released for display
As part of the year of sculpture, Winchester City Council’s museums service will be exhibiting a rarely-seen item of the city’s civic silver, the Royal Hampshire Regiment’s silver tiger, at Winchester Guildhall.
The tiger was presented in 1952 to the Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors of the City of Winchester by The Royal Hampshire Regiment to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the raising of the regiment on 13th February 1702 and as an appreciation of their long and happy association with the city.
The Regiment’s nickname ‘Tigers’ came into use after 21 years service in India. In commemoration of this service, King George IV authorised the figure of the Royal tiger and for it to be used on the regimental colours.
Councillor Patricia Stallard, Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and Sport, commented:
“The tiger represents the city’s proud military and long civic history. Our Guildhall displays are always well appreciated, and I am sure the tiger will delight many visitors – and perhaps prompt a few trips up the road to the Royal Hampshire Regiment Museum in Southgate Street.”
The tiger can be seen during normal Guildhall opening hours.