[T]o commemorate those service men and women from Westmorland that lost their lives in WW1 and WW2, the Westmorland County Agricultural Society (WCAS) is asking people to hand make and donate poppies that will be displayed in a special marquee at the County Show called ‘Westmorland Remembers’.
Stephen Procter, Chairman of WCAS, explained: “As the centenary of the First World War is commemorated this year, we wanted to mark this in a thoughtful and visual way at the County Show. We have decided to dedicate a special marquee called ‘Westmorland Remembers’ to honour and remember all those who served, died and were affected by both World Wars at home and overseas. Our target is to have at least 1,918 poppies, but the sky is the limit and we hope to receive a lot more as our local community gets behind this call to action.”
As well as the traditional red poppies that have for generations been a sign of respect for people lost in military conflict, as a farming and agricultural organisation, WCAS is also encouraging people to make purple poppies to remember the many thousands of animals that were killed, for example horses, donkeys, dogs and pigeons.
At this year’s Country Fest on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 June, there will be a special area in the Sew Crafty Marquee dedicated to the creation of poppies with help on hand from experienced crafters, so everyone both young and old can take part and make a poppy.
Christine Knipe, Chief Executive of WCAS, said: “The ‘Westmorland Remembers’ Marquee aims to be a very fitting tribute to the sacrifices made by local people during and after the war. The display of poppies hand-made by a generation 100 years on from the end of WW1 offers people the opportunity to maybe remember a loved one, family member or just pay tribute to the brave service men and women from Westmorland who fought for the freedom we all enjoy today.”
People can make and donate as many poppies as they like and they can be knitted, crocheted or sewn together. Completed poppies can be taken to the following outlets:
- County Show Headquarters, Lane Farm, Crooklands LA7 7NH
- Reticule Fabrics, 11 Blackhall Yard, Yard 67, Stricklandgate, Kendal LA9 4LU
All completed hand-made poppies should be handed in by Friday 31 August, so they can be placed on the display. For more information, please contact 015395 67804 or email [email protected]
