In Pictures: Skegness turns red for Remembrance with stunning poppy displays

The impressive work, by the Skegness Branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL), saw volunteers creating numerous eye-catching poppy exhibits around the town.

Nine poppy nets, made with more than 100,000 hand-knitted and crocheted poppies, were placed at the foot Skegness Clock Tower on Friday – providing a central, poignant emblem of Remembrance.

Then, on Sunday, another net featuring over 20,000 poppies was hoisted up to the top of Suncastle, in North Parade, to create a cascading effect.

The weekend’s efforts follow work to attach more than 240 giant poppies to lampposts around the town. Each is sponsored by a local business or individual, many in memory of loved one, to raise money for the poppy appeal.

The effect in the town is unmistakable – the sea of red that now greets those in Skegness is testament to branch’s ongoing dedication to the cause.

“I just hope that people pause at these displays to stand and reflect,” said Tracy Turner, vice-chair of Skegness RBL. “Remembrance is not just about those who died, it’s also about those who lived. It’s not just about the first and second world war – it covers much more recent conflicts.

"Remembrance isn’t just about looking back at historical wars – it’s about recognising the cost of freedom and ensuring that those who sacrificed so much are not forgotten.”

The displays will stay in place for Remembrance Sunday on November 8, and Armistice Day on Wednesday, November 11, before being taken down on Friday, November 13, dried and safely stored.

The displays have certainly been turning heads and impressing those that see them. Local artist and RBL branch member John Byford said: “The Skegness branch of the Royal British Legion are certainly turning our town red, and for all the right reasons. It’s wonderful to see so many people coming together to remember, and to make sure we never forget.”

Others left positive comments via social media. Writing on Facebook, one resident commented: “Absolutely stunning effort from all involved. So proud of my home town’s efforts.” Another added: “Makes me proud to live here.”