Town Hall poppy display to honour the fallen

A striking display of illuminated poppies has been installed outside Stratford Town Hall as part of the town’s efforts to commemorate the 100 anniversary of the end of the First World War.

The display, which also includes the dates 1914-1918, have been put in place by the Stratford Christmas Lights Company and has been funded through a legacy left by a late Stratford resident.

Mick Love MBE, chairman of the Christmas Lights Company, said: “I had been approached by the company who manufacture the Christmas Lights, regarding a design they had been working on, a special Poppy decoration, for the First World War anniversary.

“With the support of colleagues on the Lights Committee, and having advised the Stratford Branch (RBL) regarding the proposed display, approval was sought from the Town Council, who were delighted to support the initiative, by allowing use of the outside of the Town Hall.

“The First World War poppy display is a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made, particularly within the Stratford community, a century ago. This is highlighted so vividly, when recalling that in several instances, these painful losses had to be endured within the same family.”