Newcastle residents create ‘weeping wall’ of poppies

In commemoration of the centenary of Armistice Day, Belong Newcastle's ‘Knit and Natter’ knitting club have created a ‘weeping wall’ of poppies to honour those who served during the First World War. It is a cause close to the hearts of many of the club’s members who had fathers, uncles and grandfathers amongst the soldiers that fought bravely at battles, such as Passchendaele and the Somme.
Village residents, staff and volunteers have been knitting every week to complete the beautiful wall in time for the 100th anniversary of the day that signalled the end of World War One, which takes place on 11th November.
Knit and Natter, which is based at the Newcastle-under-Lyme care village, has served as a weekly creative outlet for many Belong customers and local knitters since it opened in April, this year. However, knitting the ‘weeping wall’ has also provided members with a place to share the incredible stories passed on to them by relatives who risked their lives in WW1.
Resident Veronica Wooliscroft, aged 83, described her uncle’s lifelong feeling of guilt for being the only surviving solider in his company after being ordered to go ‘over the top’. Whilst another club knitter Margaret Lyons, aged 84, commented on how her father had found his experience of the war too painful to ever share with her. Other group members include Jo Currie, Margaret Dixon, Pauline Wiggins, Evelyn Ball, Marian Dobson and Rosemary Lowe.
Daniel Turner, Experience Coordinator for Belong Newcastle-under-Lyme, said: “The club members have been really dedicated to creating the poppy wall for the centenary of Armistice Day and it’s been incredible to learn about the connection many of these ladies have to the First World War in the process. I would like to thank them all for their incredible efforts.”
Knit and Natter takes place 2-3pm every Thursday at the Newcastle-under-Lyme care village. If you would like to join or have any questions, please telephone: 0161 804 4200.