Pub of poppies a stunning tribute
have grown and there are now 60 regulars and 150 who come during the holidays.
“There are a number of reasons why these particular children are not able to take up these kind of opportunities; a lack of access, the cost, and also because of an ongoing stereotype that horse riding is the reserve of the wealthy and middle class,” explains Freedom. “These were families reluctant to get involved. I wanted to change that and open up the world of equestrianism.” The Don Bar ceiling IT’S a remarkable visual tribute to Britain’s armed forces heroes – a vast sea of vivid red, made up of nearly 80,000 remembrance poppies.
And the location for this year-round memorial is unique too – the inside of a North East pub.
Inspirational landlady Julie Cooper, of The Don War Memorial Bar on Silver Street in Stockton, is behind the world record number of poppies glued to the walls and ceilings that has left many veterans in tears of gratitude.
There is also a cross for each person who has died in recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as flags, memorabilia and 5,000 photos of soldiers who have lost their lives in conflict.
Julie has been building the memorial ever since she became landlady five years ago, but it is not just about putting on a display. The aim is to raise awareness of the conditions affecting veterans, those serving and their families, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other psychological conditions. Julie said: “It’s not just about what you see in the pub. It’s what goes on behind the scenes too. We try to give the veterans advice and support or just be there for them with a cuppa and a smile.”
By November 1, Julie plans for more than 100,000 poppies to line the walls in time for the centenary of the end of the Great War. The poppies are sent to her from army families and come in from all over the world.
“I am so passionate about it,” Julie said. “This pub has got a massive following, not just in the area, or the UK, but all over the world. I have people coming in here from America. It is an honour for me to be able to provide that for them, and be humbled by them and what they have done, who they are.” Julie Cooper
LOCALS GET TOGETHER TO HELP
ONE veteran loves the tribute so much he comes every day to take it all in. Former fusilier Tommy Trotter, 97, was at the D-Day landings in 1944.
Julie said: “He comes by bus at around 2pm and stays until 6pm. He gets a free toastie or pie from us, and pints bought for him. Then we send him home in a taxi.”
Locals at the pub also continue to show their dedication to the Armed Forces with regular fundraising events which have raised thousands of pounds for veterans’ charities.
Every Sunday the pub provides a free Sunday dinner for veterans. It also offers Christmas dinner to former servicemen who don’t have family to spend the day with.