On 28 October, Queen Camilla visited The Poppy Project in Corsham, attaching the final knitted poppy to a cascade of thousands draping down the tower of St Bartholomew's Church.
The Poppy Project, organised by the Women's Institute, is a community initiative displaying knitted and crocheted poppies, launched to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the World War Two.
The project was launched last year, with the goal of collecting 10,000 poppies for display. Organisers received an overwhelming response and over 31,000 poppies were contributed from across the UK and abroad, with donations coming in from as far away as America.
Addressing WI members, the Queen said: "It's so lovely because it's all the generations working together, you've got poppies coming out of your ears."
The Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Acting Bishop of Bristol and Bishop of Swindon, was also in attendance and had the opportunity to meet Queen Camilla. Speaking about the event, he said:
“It was a privilege to share this moment of reflection with Her Majesty. The Poppy Project is a powerful symbol of remembrance, and her presence affirmed the deep value of community, creativity, and honouring those who came before us. The scale and spirit of the Poppy Project speak volumes. Each handmade flower represents a personal act of remembrance, and together they form a powerful tribute to those who served and sacrificed. It’s a remarkable example of what communities can achieve when they come together.”
Photos: Top and Thumbnail: Chris Jackson/PA Images. Bottom: Roger Parry.