Thousands of knitted and crocheted poppies have been installed on Kirkby Plaza.

The poppies were unveiled by Claire Lilley, owner of the Artful Buttoner; Mark Leek, founder of the Kirkby Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club; Cllr Jason Zadrozny, leader of Ashfield District Council; Cllr Anthony Brewer, chairman of ADC; Cllr Dale Grounds, member for Kingsway ward; and Gillian Welch, Armed Forces Covenant Lead Officer.

The poppies that are on display were part of the spectacular display on the Regent, Kirkby, for the end of World War 1 Centenary celebrations last year. This year they have been installed on the railings on Kirkby Plaza ahead of Remembrance Day.

Knitting and crocheting began back in April 2018 at the Artful Buttoner shop, led by Claire Lilley, working with the Kirkby Craft Bombers, who delivered workshops and gave out patterns so that the whole community could be involved.

Cllr Zadrozny said: “When the poppies were on display last year they had a real visual impact and were a moving tribute to those who served in the armed forces. I would like to thank Claire again for her hard work and dedication to the poppy downpour.

“We took the opportunity to display the poppies again as a mark of respect for Remembrance Day. We hope that all residents will enjoy the sight of the poppies on the Plaza and take some time out to remember all of those that gave their lives for us.”