A section of Oystermouth Castle is set to be cloaked in a cascade of red in November for a special community-led tribute this Remembrance season.
Upwards of 6,000 poppies have been assembled by the Swansea Yarnbombers who spent many hours crocheting the poppies and sewing them one by one onto netting in preparation for the display, ably assisted by contributions from Swansea residents and indeed with small donations from all over the world.
The days spent by the Yarnbombers assembling these poppies and thousands of hours sat crocheting poppies is testament to the respect given for our fallen heroes and others who gave so much for us.
Work on setting up the landmark tribute is starting next week with support from the Friends of Oystermouth Castle at the council-owned venue. And it’s all set to be in place in good time for Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day on November 11.
The moving commemoration pays homage to the many thousands of local people who have served in our armed forces over the years, to veterans and to those who gave their lives for their country.
It’s hoped the display will encourage even more people to contribute to this year’s Poppy Appeal.
Michael Eames, a trustee of the Friends Oystermouth Castle, said the poppy cascade has been created largely by the Swansea Yarnbombers, but there have been small contributions from all around the world as well.
He said: “There are estimated to be upwards of 6,000 handmade poppies in the display, made with love from all over Wales and much further afield.
“We’ve had visitors from Canada, France, Australia, Finland, Taiwan the USA and many more, taking photos of the cascade in previous years, with some sending their own contributions of poppies. It’s the Swansea Yarnbombers who’ve created the vast majority, but it’s becoming a joint effort not only nationally but worldwide.”
The poppy team have been working with Mumbles Community Council, local air cadets and Swansea Council ward members to store and prepare the poppies for show.
Rob Stewart, Leader of the Council, paid tribute to the creative team behind the tribute. He said: “Remembrance is all about communities getting together in their own ways to pay their respects to our armed forces, veterans and those who’ve died in service of their country.
“The creativity and commitment of the people of Mumbles and Swansea in developing the Oystermouth Castle poppy cascade is a memorable and poignant way to pay their respects.”
