We visited Eccles Rugby Club to witness a heartwarming display of community spirit in action. The Eccles Women’s Institute (W.I.), alongside other local groups and volunteers, are creating a stunning cascading waterfall of poppies to be displayed at Eccles Gateway, directly opposite the Eccles Cenotaph, in time for this year’s Remembrance Sunday service in November.
The ambitious project will feature an awe-inspiring 5,000 hand-made poppies, each carefully threaded into a woven mesh of cloth. From what we’ve seen so far, the final display promises to be a breathtaking tribute to those who have served and sacrificed.
The initiative is a true testament to the power of community collaboration. Volunteers from all walks of life across Eccles are lending their time and talents, including members of the group Dancing with Dementia, local residents, and supporters from various community organisations.
Among those rolling up their sleeves were local councillors Jacqueline Fahy and Lisa Rondeaux Muir, who were joined by this year’s Ceremonial Mayor, Heather Fletcher. Their involvement highlights the wide-ranging support the project has received, and the importance of remembrance to the local area.
We also had the opportunity to speak with Graham Walker, who shared some exciting ideas for this year’s Remembrance Sunday service. While details are still under wraps, it’s clear that plans are in motion to make this year’s event both meaningful and memorable.
As the poppy waterfall takes shape, Eccles is once again showing how remembrance and respect can bring a community together.
