Halton Borough Council and St Mary’s Church, Widnes are asking for your help in creating a huge poppy display that will be ready in time for next year’s Remembrance Service.
The planned project will see around 15-20,000 knitted or crocheted poppies flowing from the church tower of St Mary’s Church, West Bank, and anchored at the ground, as well as a horse, dog and pigeon display to honour the fallen animals who also served in the wars.
Cllr Pamela Wallace, Deputy Mayor of Halton Borough Council and Councillor for Central & West Bank Ward, said: “Seeing the recent displays all over the country really moved and inspired me. Having a son who served in the Royal Navy for over 20 years, it is something that is personal to me.”
She added: “Crucially though this is a fantastic initiative that will produce something we can all be proud of in the borough. Halton is very much a community which is why I know so many people will want to get involved. I can’t wait to see the end result.”
To make the project possible the church is asking for donations of red and black wool, knitting needles, and crochet hooks.
You can also knit your own poppies and donate them. Anyone who donates their creations is asked to take a picture with/of them first so that they can be recognised for their fantastic contribution.
Any size and knitting pattern is fine, however, if you want guidance there are some set patterns on the Royal British Legion website which can be found here: https://support.britishlegion.org.uk/app/answers/detail/a_id/1346/~/knit-or-crochet-a-poppy
Reverend Michelle Goodwin, St Mary’s Church, said: “St Mary’s Church is at the heart of the community so it makes sense for us to take on a huge community project like this. It is an ambitious and creative act of remembrance that will involve lots of people and an enormous amount of hard work, but I know it is going to be worth it because once it is completed it will be something we can all be extremely proud of.”
She continued: “We are all thrilled by the initial response to the poppy project and so many people have already come forward to be part of it. This cascade will not only transform our church in 2026, but will also stand as a powerful expression of community, reflection, and shared commitment to remembering those who gave so much.”
Collection boxes have been set up at St Mary’s, St Luke’s and St Michael’s Church, Widnes Academy School, the Snig Pub and the Municipal Building. You can also donate money to:
St Mary’s Church Widnes PCC
Account Number: 47849970
Sort Code: 050980
Ref: Remembrance 2026
If donations go over the designated target then spare funds will be used towards restoring plaques in the church that hold the names of locals who have fallen in wars.
A knit and natter group also takes place every Monday morning between 10-12 in the back hall of St Mary’s Church. The creations made in the group will go towards the project. All are welcome to go along and craft, have a chat and make some new friends along the way.
Please email revmichellegoodwin@gmail.com or Pamela.Wallace@halton.gov.uk for any further information.
