Friston community creates thousands of poppies for Remembrance display

Friday, 30 October 2026 at 17:05

The volunteer team busy at Friston Village Hall on Friday (30th October) preparing the poppy display.

Thousands of hand-crafted poppies will go on display at St Mary the Virgin Church in Friston throughout November as the village remembers those who lost their lives in conflicts.

The installation, made up of knitted, crocheted and ceramic poppies, will stretch more than 20 metres from the top of the tower of the historic 14th-century church.

It has been created by the local community, with residents making poppies and donations of handmade pieces coming from friends, family and neighbouring villages.

The display will run from the 1st to 30th November, with visitors from Suffolk and beyond invited to see the installation, reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served and recognise the continuing work of the armed forces.

Visitors will also be able to take part in a competition to guess the total number of poppies in the display.

Donations to the Royal British Legion can be made using QR codes displayed at the church and in locations around the village.

Organisers Wendy Ireland and Caroline Moore said the project had been a positive way to bring people together, with volunteers enjoying craft sessions, coffee and cake while making the poppies. They added that some involved are keen to continue meeting through a knitting or craft group.

The church is at the heart of the display, with its historic features including the Royal Arms of James I.

Listen now to hear from Rosemary Fleet, one of the team - who spoke to us here at East Suffolk One about the amazing project: