A group of knitters and crocheters from Guernsey say coming together to create a large-scale poppy display for Remembrance has helped them feel part of the island’s community.
More than 2,000 handmade poppies, created by people from across the island, have been brought together to form a display at the Boer War Memorial in St Julian’s Avenue.
‘The Guernsey Poppy Project’ took place over four months, with people contributing flowers individually and at regular ‘Knit and Natter’ sessions before the finished installation was unveiled on Saturday.
Crocheter Danica Thomas said being part of the project made her “feel part of the Guernsey community”.
She said she met “nice people” at the meet-ups and it was “satisfying” to see everyone’s flowers come together at the end, with each crocheter and knitter bringing something “unique” to their poppies.
“Crochet is one of the things I find that helps my mental health.
“Committing to this poppy project has helped me stay accountable with dedicating time enjoying what makes me feel happy, while giving something to Guernsey,” Mrs Thomas added.
Remembering the people and animals who served
The display also features a hand-painted mural by local artist and former solider Louise Mitchinson, who spent 30 hours creating the centrepiece.
The project was inspired by a similar poppy-knitting initiative in Sark, with Tessa Le Gallez helping bring together the island’s knitters and crocheters to create Guernsey’s own tribute.
The display includes purple poppies, which represent animals that served and died in conflicts, alongside the traditional red flowers.
Quietly crocheted at home
Nicky Luxon was unable to attend the ‘Knit and Natter’ sessions, but “quietly crocheted at home thinking about people who sacrificed so much for generations they never knew”.
For me it was being part of a greater whole, and knowing that my small contribution combined with others made a big impact.
Nicky Luxon, crocheter
Alana Tavender agreed the most powerful part of the project was knowing she’d been “part of something for the community”.
“Every poppy I made allowed me time of my own reflection and to see them all together was absolutely amazing to see.”
‘Made me think of Grandad’
Nikki Tanguy didn’t knit or crochet any poppies but joined the project at the end to help “attach the amazing poppies onto the nets”.
She said there was a “fantastic atmosphere” among the group and she looked forward to getting involved in future projects as there was a “real community feeling”.
Jill Loveridge said every poppy was “made with love” and she was “proud” to help “honour all those who sacrificed their lives”.
“It made me think even more of my Grandad who fought in World War One at the Battle of the Somme.”
The project was “Guernsey community at its best”, she added.
‘The Guernsey Poppy Project 2026′ will be on display at the Boer War Memorial on St Julian’s Avenue, St Peter Port, until 18 November.
