Poppies

After wading through the crowds we made our way to the Volunteer Office to start our shift at the Tower. I had signed Mum and I up ages ago and it was great to finally be able to help with the planting. After watching a short video, getting our gloves and meeting out team leader we were out in the moat and got our first view of the poppies close up. They really are breathtaking and it was a strange experience being on the inside with everyone peering down at us.

There are two main jobs to do and we started with adding the washers to the steel rods. It was surprising difficult as many don't fit but we got to swap a number of times and moved on to planting. I couldn't help feeling moved with each poppy you plant and what they are supposed to signify. The poppies at the Tower have really struck a cord with lots of people and they evoke a number of reactions. I think its a amazing piece of public art that encourages people to stop and think of others for a moment and reflect on the sacrifice they made. It has brought people together from all over the county and atmosphere is very special.

It was good to do our bit to help and after our shift we stayed to watch the Last Post being played before heading home.


Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, Tower of London