A CHARITABLE field of dreams is starting to take shape as word spreads across the globe about a school’s inspirational act of remembrance.
Orders from as far away as New Zealand have already been placed for clay poppies, which will form a poignant art installation at Risedale Sports and Community College, Hipswell, Catterick Garrison.
Inspired by the Sea of Poppies at the Tower of London, the school’s version has won the backing of the Royal British Legion.
Up to 1,000 clay poppies on copper stalks will be planted in the quad from November 9 in time for Remembrance Day on November 11.
Risedale students will be helped by local primary schools to make the flowers, which will be individually numbered, some carrying an inscription, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, before being sold for £5 each in aid of the Royal British Legion.
The school’s ceramicist Sheila Plews and service children advocates Helen Porritt and Ewan Thomson have perfected prototypes.
All KS3 students will get to make one in lessons as will KS4 art students. KS4 students not taking art and staff will be offered the chance to make one over lunchtime.
Regional Poppy Appeal organiser Vicki McCreanor said: “The poppies are just so lovely I think they are really going to take off. It is hugely exciting and people will get the chance to own a beautiful piece of art and also help charity.”
Community fundraiser Stewart Lythe added: “I think the idea is inspired. It is priceless to include young people who have boundless energy and will be there to support us as they get older.
“The Royal British Legion isn’t just for those people lost in wars it is for the current members of the armed forces, their families and ex-servicemen and we look after them for all their lives – anything from housing, welfare to holidays – 365 days a year. This needs £1.6m a week.”
The Poppy Appeal raises about £43m leaving the charity in need of support all year round.
Almost half of Risedale’s students are from service families with another 25 per cent ex-service families. Many others live and work on the garrison, soon to be the largest in Northern Europe.
Mrs Porritt said: “Every one of the poppies will be different and personal which is lovely. Each student will get the chance to make one and it is great to have the support of other schools. I couldn’t believe it when a lady contacted us from New Zealand.”
