VOLUNTEERS have been hard at work installing this year’s Dawlish Poppy Wall.

This year, the remembrance wall has been joined by 56 wooden poppies made by members of Dawlish Men’s Shed.

The display of handmade poppies, many crocheted and knitted, has grown considerably in the six years since it was launched during the Covid pandemic.

The railings along the bowling club on the Lawn are now festooned with various contributions, some from charities and organisations including the Dawlish Sunflower Bunch cancer support group and Assist Teignbridge.

Organiser Noreen Goodchild said: ‘It is an accumulation of six years worth of work from local crafters since the first Dawlish Poppy Wall installation in November 2020.

‘This year we’ve created a designated area to tie or hang your own crocheted/knitted poppies to.

'They can either be red, purple or white and I’m hoping to see loads attached.

‘Once the wall has come down, all the donated poppies will be attached to the drops or made into wreaths and placed on next year’s wall.’

Dawlish Men's Shed has contributed 56 hand made wooden poppies to the Dawlish Poppy Wall. Photo Bob Simpson
Dawlish Men's Shed has contributed 56 hand made wooden poppies to the Dawlish Poppy Wall. Photo Bob Simpson (MDA BOB SIMPSON )

The installation was attended by Mayor of Dawlish Anne Heywood.

A town council spokesman said: ‘This wonderful display has grown once again since last year, and a huge thank you must go to Noreen and her dedicated team of volunteers, who have worked so hard to create such a stunning and poignant tribute.

‘The display serves as a fitting reminder of those who lost their lives in service to their country as we approach Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday.

‘While the display was being installed, the Union Jack was raised to mark the two weeks that the Poppy Wall will be on display, providing a focal point for reflection and remembrance within the community.

‘It was also fantastic to see the beautiful wooden poppies created by the Dawlish Men’s Shed proudly displayed alongside the wall, adding to this moving tribute.

‘Members of the public are invited to add their own poppies to the wall using the yellow sign area, helping to create a personal and meaningful display of remembrance from across the community.’

The wall will remain in place until November 14.

The annual Remembrance Parade, organised jointly by the Dawlish Royal British Legion and Dawlish Town Council, will take place on Sunday November 8.

The parade will assemble on Park Road before stepping off at 2.30pm, and members of the public are invited to join and pay their respects.

A rolling road closure will be in place for the duration of the parade to ensure the safety of all those taking part and watching along the route.