Call for Volunteers: Help Create Thousands of Knitted Poppies for Chelmsford’s Remembrance Day 2026 Tribute

Chelmsford’s community is being asked to pick up their knitting needles and crochet hooks as part of a heartfelt project to fill the city with thousands of handmade poppies ahead of Remembrance Day 2026.

Organised by Chelmsford City Council in partnership with Chelmsford CVS, the Chelmsford Knitted Poppy Appeal aims to create a powerful, city-wide display honouring those who have served and sacrificed. The handmade poppies will decorate prominent landmarks including Shire Hall, Chelmsford Market, High Chelmer Shopping Centre, city centre lampposts and railings. Moving installations will also tour the city before converging at the Civic Centre War Memorial.

Cllr Stephen Robinson, Leader of Chelmsford City Council, said: “Chelmsford has a proud tradition of coming together in meaningful ways, and this project captures that spirit beautifully. Every poppy, whether knitted, crocheted, or donated as wool, represents someone’s time, care, and respect. I’m looking forward to seeing our city come alive with this powerful expression of remembrance and community.”

How to Get Involved in the Chelmsford Knitted Poppy Project

Everyone is welcome — from complete beginners to experienced crafters. You can use any pattern you like, but knitted and crocheted templates are available from Chelmsford CVS. White poppies (symbolising peace) and purple poppies (remembering animals in conflict) are also warmly welcomed.

Important guidelines:

  • Please avoid using plastic buttons in the centre of the poppies to keep them environmentally friendly.
  • Leave a short length of wool (a few inches) attached to each poppy to make assembly easier.

Non-crafters can still help by donating balls of red double-knit wool.

Poppy-a-thon Events

A relaxed Poppy-a-thon is taking place on Tuesday 2 June 2026, from 10am to 4pm at Moulsham Lodge Community Trust (99 Gloucester Avenue, Chelmsford, CM2 9DS). Drop in anytime for knitting, crocheting, refreshments, conversation and a short talk from the Royal British Legion. Beginners are fully supported. Further events, including a possible record-breaking session at Chelmsford Cathedral, are planned.

Drop-Off Points for Completed Poppies

  • Chelmsford CVS – Burgess Well House, Coval Lane, Chelmsford, CM1 1FW
  • Chelmsford City Council Civic Centre – Front reception desk, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 9SW

The finished displays will include QR codes and collection points so visitors can donate directly to the Royal British Legion.

Sara Tupper, Chief Executive of Chelmsford BID, added: “This project is a beautiful example of what makes Chelmsford so special… The poppy displays will not only honour remembrance, but they’ll also draw people into the city centre, supporting our brilliant independent shops, cafés, and retailers.”

This community-led initiative is a wonderful way to pay tribute while bringing people together through creativity. Every single poppy counts.

For poppy patterns, more details or to get involved, contact Chelmsford CVS on 01245 351888 or email info@chelmsfordcvs.org.uk. You can also check the Chelmsford CVS website or City Life Chelmsford for updates.