A five foot high poppy statue is to be unveiled in Teddington on Sunday to commemorate World War One.
The prominent poppy is one of three sculptures – the others being two smaller poppies – being installed at Elmfield Gardens in Teddington and will be officially unveiled at 11am by Twickenham MP Dr Tania Mathias.
Approximately 5ft tall, the steel structure features leaves at the foot of the stalk as well as a red flower head around 18 inches wide.
The poppies were handmade by the Camelia Botnar Foundation, a group who offer training in areas such as metalwork, building, painting and pottery to 16-21 year-olds who face problematic situations at home.
Richmond Council’s cabinet member for environment Pamela Fleming said: “Even 100 years on, the First World War continues to fascinate and affect us all.
“It’s still hard to comprehend the sacrifices ordinary people made.
“These poppies are a fantastic way of remembering those who gave their lives.
“The fact that a member of the local community has worked so hard fundraising, to make this happen, makes it even more special.”
Sheena Harold, Chair of the Teddington Society, added: “We are thrilled that our MP, Dr. Tania Mathias, will officially unveil the memorial with representatives from the Royal British Legion, The Poppy Factory, Churches Together In Teddington, and members of the council’s parks department who have worked so hard to erect this memorial for us in Elmfield Gardens.
“The poppy sculptures are a worthy memorial for us to honour the fallen of Teddington.”
The poppies will remain in situ the end of the centenary commemorations.
Picture courtesy of Richmond Council, with thanks
