Volunteers needed to help restore cherished Exeter memorial display
Published: 24 September 2024
Volunteers are being asked to help preserve a unique piece of Exeter history.
The historic Guildhall is preparing to exhibit 5,000 heartfelt poppies, each a tribute to those who lost their lives during the First World War.
Inspired by the poignant displays at Devon County Show 2017 and Chelsea Flower Show 2016, the poppies embody remembrance and tell a story of sacrifice and solidarity.
The striking fabric display is due to be exhibited at the historic Guildhall between 4 November and 9 November, ahead of Remembrance Sunday.
As preparation begin to display the cherished poppies, helping hands are needed to secure the poppies to their fabric panels.
Volunteers will be helping to commemorate the lives of those who served while preserving part of the city’s heritage.
The work is being coordinated by local members of Exeter Heritage Volunteers. Last year the volunteers spent time polishing and restoring a wide range of historic silver items at the Guildhall.
The volunteers, who have a passion for restoring historic artefacts, rose to the challenge of polishing some of the city’s precious silverware and returning it to its former glory.
This time around they will be turning their attention to the unique fabric poppy display.
The volunteers will be attending the historic Guildhall to carry out the work on Monday 14 October, between 10am and 4pm, and Tuesday 15 October, 10am and 2pm, and are encouraging others to join them for a ‘Poppy Sewing Party’.
The restored work will be on display 4-9 November. Please check opening times at the historic Guildhall during these dates to attend.
* The Exeter Heritage Volunteers Programme is a pilot programme funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the Exeter Heritage Partnership Network, supported by Exeter City Council.
If anyone would like more information about the Exeter Heritage Volunteers Programme and would like to get involved contact exeheritagevolunteers@gmail.com
