Devizes community unites to create striking poppy cascade for Remembrance Day

Residents of Crammer Court Independent Living Scheme in Devizes have joined forces with the wider community to create a handmade poppy cascade in honour of Remembrance Day.

The heartfelt display is on show in the communal dining room of the scheme, which is managed by local housing association Aster Group. It pays tribute not only to the men and women who served in the armed forces, but also to the animals who supported them, symbolised by the inclusion of purple poppies.

The cascade is made of over 1,000 poppies which have all been hand crafted, knitted and crocheted.

Janet Holmes, who moved into Crammer Court earlier this year with her husband Chris, played a key role in bringing the project to life.

Together, they hand-sewed over 1,000 poppies onto the display. When they shared the project on social media, they had poppies sent to them from across the UK and Wales to add to the scene.

Janet said: “Earlier in the year we held a VE Day party at Crammer Court and everyone had such a good time, we wanted to do something else to make people feel good. I always said if we can make one person smile as a result of getting involved, it’ll be worth it, and people have come out of their flats to get involved and are laughing together again.

“We’ve been amazed by all the contributions, to receive over 1,000 handmade items has exceeded our expectations from residents and also from people all over the UK and Wales.”

The initiative has sparked a renewed sense of community at Crammer Court, with residents now regularly gathering for quiz afternoons, bingo, and knit and natter sessions.

Holly Sheppard, Assistant Director of Operations, said: “The poppy cascade has been a fantastic opportunity for people to come together and spend time as a group. We’re pleased our residents are enjoying seeing their hard work pay off. The result is a beautiful addition to the communal area, and we’re looking forward to seeing them continue to use Crammer Court to share both the special moments and the everyday.”

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