Lest we forget

Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red at the Tower of London;

Terry and I decided to make the trip to London on the last day of the school holidays. There was no reason to choose that day other than the sun was shining.  The train up was busy, and the underground was manic.

Tannoy announcements were advising people not to use the underground stations close to the Tower of London but having made the two-hour trip up to town, there was nothing for it but to grit our teeth and get on with it.  We were there to pay our respects, and we were jolly well going to do so, as were the tens of thousands of other people all intent on doing the same.  

Officials were urging the public to stay away but while their pleas fell on deaf ears, they need not have worried for those that attended were a picture of dignity.  I can’t remember the last time we spoke to so many happy smiling people. It was a wonderful day, and one we will never forget.   

Poppies and People as far as the eye can see.

Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red at the Tower of London marks one hundred years since the first full day of Britain's involvement in the First World War. Created by ceramic artist Paul Cummins, with setting by stage designer Tom Piper. 

The installation will be completed on Armistice Day, when the 888,246th poppy will be planted into the lawn by a volunteer.  Each of the poppies will be sold to raise money for charities which serve British veterans, including Help for Heroes and The Royal British Legion.

In memory of Private Arthur Denis Flitney (my grandfather), who was killed on 16 August 1917. Remembered with honour at the Tyne Cot Memorial to the missing of the First World War.