Care home residents create stunning poppy cascade for Remembrance Day

Hundreds of handmade poppies have been brought together to form a colourful cascade flowing from the balcony of Chirk Court down to the ground.

The display has been created over several months by residents and staff at the specialist care home, which supports 66 elderly people and those living with dementia.

The project was the idea of home manager Jane Humphreys, who wanted to bring the community together while paying tribute to veterans and military personnel, including some residents who live at Chirk Court.

The poppies have been made using a variety of materials, including recycled plastic bottles which have been painted, as well as knitted and crocheted designs.

Staff, residents and students from a local college all played a part in bringing the display to life.

Jane said: "Remembrance means a great deal to residents and colleagues. We wanted to create a tribute that reflects the respect and gratitude we have for those who have served.

"It's been a real team effort. Our activities coordinator Nicola has been supporting the residents with painting. Wendy, Tracy and I have been knitting poppies, and Kathy, one of our housekeepers, worked with students from the local college to place the poppies onto the netting.

"We have had incredibly positive feedback from people in the local community. Everyone has come together and worked exceptionally hard. We are proud to have created such a beautiful display, which has united us all."

Resident Helen Roberts said the display had attracted attention from passers-by.

"We have had comments from passers-by, and some people have even stopped and taken photographs. The whole display is very nicely done," she said.

Fellow resident George Nicols, who is a military veteran, added: "The poppy display is wonderful. I want to say well done to everyone who has taken part in creating it."

The display has also been praised by the district nursing team, who regularly visit the home.

They said: "This poppy display really brightens up the building and creates a welcoming and thoughtful atmosphere. It is lovely to see such care and detail, which reflects Chirk Court as a homely and special place for the staff, residents and as a community nurse visiting daily.

"Well done to everyone creating this. The poppies have certainly made a statement."