Newport pupils plant poppies to remember war

A group of boarders at Adams' Grammar School in Newport have cut a remembrance cross in a lawn at Longford House and have planted poppy seeds.

Once they flower, the poppies will create a striking display.

Longford Hall and Adams' Grammar School both have an association with the World War I.

At the outbreak of war in 1914, Longford Hall was owned by Colonel Leeke, a direct descendant of Ralph Leeke, who had built the hall in 1797.

All three of Colonel Leeke's sons were killed in active service.

During the war the hall was used as a hospital for wounded servicemen. Half a mile down the road from Longford Hall is Adams' Grammar School. At the time of the war it was known as Newport Grammar School.

Four hundred boys served, of whom 41 were killed.

Matthew Skeate, housemaster at Longford Hall, said: "After the war Longford Hall changed hands several times before being bought by Adams' Grammar School in 1968 in order to house the junior boarding house.

"This year a number of junior boarders have dug a cross of remembrance in the garden to mark the centenary of the start of the war. They have planted hundreds of poppy seeds to produce a cross of poppies which can be seen from the air as well as the ground."

Peter Whalley, community fundraiser for the Poppy Appeal in Shropshire, said: "The outbreak of the First World War is not something to celebrate but it is important that we commemorate the anniversary.

"The conflict had a huge impact on Britain and the rest of the world and it is important that we remember all those who were involved.

"It is good to see these young people acknowledging the links that the school and Longford Hall have with the war and this floral tribute will be a long lasting reminder to future pupils and staff."

Residents in Newport have been urged to plant poppies in their gardens as part of the anniversary commemorations.