Four Kelpies in Falkirk

Following a six-year odyssey which has seen the little fellas stopping off in New York, Chicago, Milan and London, the original 1:10 scale maquettes arrived on site to meet their 30 metre high counter parts.

During their world tour the maquettes sparked international recognition with over one million visitors from around the globe coming to see them on their travels.

Their big pals, meanwhile, the world’s largest equine sculptures were completed in October 2013 and form a gateway at the eastern entrance of the Forth and Clyde canal, creating a stunning monument to horse-powered heritage across Scotland.

The small scale Kelpie heads. located near the venue’s visitor centre, will be at the Helix until Sunday, May 25 when they will be off on their travels once more.

Ben Mardall, Helix team leader said: “We are thrilled to be hosting the maquettes at the Helix, the home of the Kelpies. This completes the story and phase one of the Helix journey, from the original inspiration, to the successful completion of this amazing ambitious project.

“Later this year will be see our five millionth visitor, which goes to demonstrate the wonderful impact the Helix Project has brought to the Falkirk region for the

local communities and visitors.”

VisitScotland regional director Neil Christison added: “We are delighted to welcome the Kelpie maquettes back to their home at Helix Park following their worldwide adventure. The Kelpies have been a major success for Falkirk, the surrounding area and Scotland as a whole and this tour has helped reignite their appeal across the world. “It is very fitting that they return to this site during the Year of Coasts and Waters celebrations and I would encourage as many people as possible to visit them in the coming months.”