There and Back

This year marks 100 years from the end of the horrors of the First World War. No, we don't learn do we, because we went to war again 20 years later! Commemorations were being marked in numerous countries, and the UK in particular marked the occasion in many, and varied ways. Being a small community, our commemorations centered around the local church, and the huge efforts of the volunteers gave us a memorable, and frankly outstanding display. From the display on the railings outside .... ...to the entrance door ..... .... and then as you entered and looked toward the East end Walking down the aisle, the effect of the Altar Poppy curtain increases. Until the full effect is apparent when you stand in front of the altar. Even better with the soldier standing beside it. The cascade from the pulpit The pews were adorned with more hand knitted poppies - A good touch I thought. And last, but not least, the Font. A

The displays around the district were also a poignant reminder of the suffering and loss of life in the Great War - still remembered 100 years on. They ranged from the simplistic but effective display in Raydon, to the huge 21000+ poppy display in Sudbury. The beautiful, simple display of Raydon Church.  The amazing cascade in Sudbury. A cascade of more than 21,000 knitted and crocheted poppies covering the local church, many of which were donated from all over the world.  While I was dodging traffic to get my photograph , this rainbow appeared behind the church.  I wonder what he would have made of it all?  This display in the Castle Park, Colchester, features willow sculptures and a floral World War One tank, and incorporates over 11,000 plants. It is the town`s commemoration of the centenary of the end of World War One, as well as remembering the town’s important role during the conflict, when up to 20,000 soldiers were stationed in the