Bury shoppers raise £1,000 for veterans through handmade Wall of Remembrance

Saturday, 8 November 2025 13:28

By David Murphy

A community art installation at Mill Gate Shopping Centre has raised £1,000 for the Royal British Legion, thanks to hundreds of handmade poppies donated by schools, scouts and local groups.

A remembrance project at Mill Gate Shopping Centre has raised £1,000 for the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal, after overwhelming support from the local community transformed a simple memorial idea into a powerful public display.

The centre’s ‘Wall of Remembrance’ campaign encouraged residents, schools and community groups across Bury to create handmade poppies in tribute to those who served in the Armed Forces. The result was two expansive installations filled with poppies made from felt, paper, crochet and wool.

Centre manager Angela Tierney said the response had been “deeply moving”.

“We’ve been absolutely blown away by the generosity and creativity of our community,” she said. “What started as one display quickly grew into two, thanks to the incredible number of poppies donated. It’s been touching to see people of all ages come together to remember, reflect and give something back.”

Among the contributors were Seedfield Community Knitting Group, St Thomas CEP Bury, St Joseph’s Primary School, 44th Bury ROBOT Scouts, and Bury FC Juniors. Each poppy was matched by a 50p donation from Mill Gate itself, allowing the centre to reach its £1,000 fundraising target.

Funds raised will support the Royal British Legion’s vital work with members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans and their families.

The commemorative atmosphere at the centre has been further enhanced by a pop-up art exhibition created by Veterans in Communities, featuring artwork by ex-servicemen and women from across the North West. The Royal British Legion also continues to operate a stand inside the centre, welcoming visitors and sharing stories of military service.

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