10 Nov 2024
A stunning crochet poppy wreath has brightened up St Albans Abbey Station to mark Remembrance Day.
It came about thanks to a partnership between Leeanna’s Wish Create & Craft Group and the Abbey Line Community Rail Partnership.
A dozen community members of all ages have spent the past month crocheting individual poppies to form a wreath which is now displayed on the station platform.
Led by local crafter Karen Lawrence, the group held weekly gatherings to create the intricate poppies, each stitch symbolising a tribute to the lives lost in conflicts past.
“It’s been amazing to see everyone come together for such an important cause,” Karen said. “Remembrance Day is a time for us to honour those who sacrificed so much, and this wreath is our way of showing respect and gratitude.”
Avid creator, Mona Twilley saw a need for a local, accessible crafting group and helped co-found Create & Craft, which runs on Fridays at the Cottonmill Community & Cycling Centre.
“I suffered a major stroke nine years ago leaving me with physical difficulties,” Mona said. “But my creative side stayed with me. I find it hard to knit now – that needs two working hands – but crocheting I can do! My aim is to share the love with my creations.”
The Remembrance Poppies project was funded by the Abbey Line Community Rail Partnership as part of their mission to connect local communities with their railway and was supported by the newly-founded Abbey Station Friends group.
The Abbey Line Community Rail Partnership Officer, Kate Swindells, praised the craft group’s efforts, adding: “The poppy wreath will be a powerful reminder for all our commuters to pause and reflect. It’s also been lovely to meet the creators and hear how important their craft group is to them.”
An information board next to the wreath gives details about the project and provides ways to donate to this year’s national Poppy Appeal.
A second wreath is also on display at the Cottonmill Community and Cycling Centre.
Based in Cottonmill and Sopwell, LeeAnna’s Wish provides support for protected groups living in and around St Albans. Their inter-generational projects aim to engage, empower, and promote friendships and social interaction.
Find out more information about the group and their services and activities here: https://www.leeannaswish.org/
The Abbey Line Community Rail Partnership is a partnership made up of representatives from local authorities, the rail industry and other local organisations.
Find out more here: https://abbeylinecommunityrail.org.uk/
