Hundreds of handmade poppies transform Lydgate village in tribute to fallen heroes

HUNDREDS of handmade poppies have transformed a Saddleworth church into a moving tribute to those who lost their lives in the two World Wars, thanks to the efforts of local volunteers.

Members of the Love Lydgate Community group have created a striking Remembrance display at St Anne’s Church, featuring more than 500 crocheted poppies decorating the archway, alongside a cascading poppy waterfall at the entrance.

The project has brought together residents from the village and further afield, with volunteers answering an appeal to help make the poppies.

Jennifer Greenwood and Susan Fleming, from Love Lydgate, have helped bring the display to life, with Susan coming up with the original idea.

But the tribute extends beyond the church entrance.

Volunteers have also decorated the graves of 16 servicemen commemorated in the churchyard, including 13 associated with the First World War and three with the Second World War.

Each has been marked with a cross and an information poster, allowing visitors to learn more about the individuals and their stories.

Among those remembered is Robert Robinson, who was brought back to Britain but later died from his wounds.

Another particularly poignant tribute honours William and John Binns, whose names appear together on a family grave.

The volunteers have also highlighted the grave of Thomas Steele, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for his service during the Second World War and survived the conflict.

Although the group has carried out Remembrance activities in previous years, this is the first time it has created such an extensive crocheted poppy display.

Jennifer reflected on the importance of ensuring the sacrifices made by earlier generations are never forgotten.

She said: “After the First World War, the community made a promise, didn’t they? They promised, ‘We won’t forget you.’

“And every year we remember them and we remember their names.

“We didn’t know them, but we’ve honoured them. And we’ve kept the promise.”

The display at St Anne’s Church offers visitors an opportunity to reflect on the lives behind the names and the enduring importance of remembrance ahead of Remembrance Sunday on November 8.