Volunteers from Stourbridge based charity Crafting For Communities have crafted more than 1300 poppies which are now to be added to Brierley Hill’s poignant War Memorial Remembrance display this November.

After seeing the thought-provoking net of poppies at Brierley Hill’s newly restored War Memorial last year, Crafting For Communities founder Lisa Maidment reached out to Brierley Hill ward Councillor Adam Davies to offer the support of the charity’s volunteers in expanding the display for 2022. Cllr Davies said:

“We’re so grateful to Lisa and the volunteers at Crafting For Communities for their time and effort making so many extra poppies for this year’s display.

“Our newly restored War Memorial is a permanent reminder of the sacrifice made by those who served to defend our country and way of life – particularly the hundreds of local men and boys who died in the horrific wars of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

“It’s so important that we continue to remember their sacrifice, and these poppies will help us to do that by making sure this year’s period of Remembrance is even more thought-provoking.”

The charity’s merry maker volunteers each made what they could, with some making just a couple and some making lots. But everyone used different mediums to make their creations. Lisa Maidment, founder of Crafting For Communities, added:

“Our makers just loved doing the poppies, to make a vibrant display and to show our respect to those who fought for us.

“We saw the display from last year and knew we could make it even better. “As a group, we love to make a difference to our communities. Either to provide relief to discomfort or to spread joy, and we can't wait to see the finished display for Remembrance Sunday.”

The new poppies will be added to the hundreds crafted last year by groups and volunteers, including adult learners at Brierley Hill Neighbourhood Centre, Top Church Training, Family Solutions, Harry’s Café and community groups including Spill The Beans and KNWH Kuppa Club.