Four thousand poppies created by pupils across Ruthin were unveiled at the weekend as part of a series of events to honour the town’s fallen heroes of World War I.
Organised by Ruthin Community Group with funding from Heritage Lottery World War I Programme and the Big Lottery Awards for All, the events were held as part of an inter-generational project that has brought children and adults together to commemorate the centenary of Mametz Wood, the first battle of the Somme.
Clwyd West AM Darren Millar AM was among the first to view the children’s display of poppies on Friday.
The following day, July 9, school pupils from the town and surrounding villages paraded through Ruthin carrying their handcrafted poppies, commemorating the 4,000 Welshmen who either lost their lives or were injured in the battle.
The parade was just part of a packed programme at Ysgol Brynhyfryd and Theatr John Ambrose over the weekend. Other activities included a living history camp with re-enactors, interactive events where over 16s could enlist, and a rolling programme of concerts and historical talks on both days.
Darren said:
“It was great to visit Ysgol Brynhyfryd on Friday and to see the spectacular display of poppies. I was extremely impressed by the enormous amount of work the children have undertaken to remember those from Ruthin who lost their lives in battle a century ago.
“As well as creating poppies for the parade, students from Ysgol Brynhyfryd have also put together a commemorative book, supported by local historian Geraint Owain, and a DVD of people’s memories.
“While in Ruthin, I also visited the town’s library to view an exhibition marking the sacrifice made by people in Ruthin during World War I. This will be on over the next eight weeks and I would encourage anyone in the area to call by, there are some really fascinating items on display.”
Ron Bell, events organiser for Ruthin Community Group, said: “The commemorations, from the poppies made by the town’s children to the memories day, were designed to bring all generations together and the support from the community has been amazing.
“The aim being to help people not only remember World War I but to learn about the sacrifice their predecessors made for their freedoms.”
The Head of the HLF in the Wales, Richard Bellamy, said: “The impact of the First World War was far reaching, touching every corner of the UK. Since April 2010, the Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded over £5.5million to 90 projects that are marking this global Centenary. With our grant programmes, we are enabling even more communities to explore the continuing legacy of this conflict and broaden their understanding of how it has shaped the world”
Picture Caption 1: Clwyd West AM Darren Millar at Ysgol Brynhyfreyd in Ruthin to see their 4,000 poppy display commemorating the Battle of Mametz Wood.
Picture Caption 2: Clwyd West AM Darren Millar visiting the WW1 exhibition at Ruthin Library.