Every poppy tells a story - every stitch remembers 🌺

Lest we forget

Every poppy tells a story - every stitch remembers 🌺

Remembrance has always held deep meaning for me, shaped by my 23 years of service in the Armed Forces and the enduring values of respect, unity and gratitude that come with it.

This year, I wanted to help bring that same spirit of remembrance into our community. Earlier this year, I proposed the idea for poppies to line every entry point into Haydon Wick Parish, inspired by the peaceful displays through Tadpole Villiage Garden (St Andrews Parish Council) where each lamppost carries a poppy in tribute.

Last year, I began laying the groundwork: walking routes, counting lampposts with Cllr Vinay Manro and building the partnerships needed to bring this vision to life. This year, that vision becomes reality.

Soon, you’ll see poppies appearing on lampposts at every entry and exit point a united and visible tribute to those who gave their today for our tomorrow.

I’m also proud to have continued my collaboration with the Swindon Big Knit community group, whose volunteers have crafted and donated 200 beautiful hand-knitted poppies, along with a beautiful letterbox topper created from our shared ideas. It will be displayed on the letterbox across the road from the Haydon Wick Council offices, facing the same camouflage-net backdrop created last year with support from 162 Regiment RLC, forming a vibrant sea of red poppies over a draping green camouflage net that symbolises remembrance and respect.

As we pause to reflect on their meaning, let’s remember those who served, those who continue to serve, and all whose lives have been touched by conflict. United in remembrance, we honour the fallen, support the living and salute their sacrifice.

👉 Hand knitted poppies are available to buy from the Haydon Wick Parish Council Offices (Thames Avenue), Monday – Friday, 8.30 am – 4 pm, with all donations going directly to the Royal British Legion, supporting our armed forces community (see my last shared post).