Commemoration event launches Wokingham’s Poppy Appeal
WOKINGHAM launched its commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the end of the
First World War at the weekend with the solemn planting of the first cross on the Field of Remembrance.
The act, by Wokingham town mayor Cllr Julian McGhee0Sumner, was part of a special event held at the town hall on Saturday, marking the start of a series of events which will end with the traditional Remembrance Parade on Sunday, November 11.
The Wokingham Poppy Appeal and Wokingham Town Council joined forces to mark the centenary of First World War and launch the town’s 2018 Poppy Appeal.
David Dunham, who organised the unique commemoration, said it was designed to be a special tribute for the centenary of the end of the Great War.
“We were very pleased with the steady stream of people attending throughout the day,” he said.
“Many took the opportunity to make their own poppies or to see how wreathes were made.
“The Barkham Hookers were fabulous with their crochet poppies and the War Graves Commission also had a display.”
David, who has been organising the town’s Remembrance events for the past 12 years, said this year's commemoration was ‘extra special’.
“People in Wokingham have always been generous to the appeal,” he explained.
“In recent years with all the regeneration going on in the town centre, it has been difficult to organise events so it was especially welcoming to have the space and opportunity to commemorate the 100th anniversary in such a wonderful way.
“Special thanks should go to Cllr Tony Lack who built the Field of Remembrance and, of course, to the wonderful Barkham Hookers.
“Of course, every year is special and I am delighted at the manner in which the town honours Remembrance events and donate so generously to the Poppy Appeal.
“I think the centenary of World War One is a unique opportunity to remember what service personnel went through, as well as what their families and loved ones went through. It is the same today for the armed forces and their families.”
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