Poppy Planting at the Tower of London

Four of us spent an afternoon in the moat at the Tower of London planting poppies to help complete the wonderful and poignant art installation 'Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red' marking one hundred years since the first full day of Britain's involvement in the First World War. Created by ceramic artist Paul Cummins, with setting by stage designer Tom Piper, 888,246 ceramic poppies will progressively fill the Tower's famous moat over the summer. Each poppy represents a British military fatality during the war.

About half the poppies have been planted so far, and when complete the poppies will encircle the iconic landmark, creating not only a spectacular display visible from all around the Tower but also a location for personal reflection. The scale of the installation intends to reflect the magnitude of such an important centenary creating a powerful visual commemoration.

We found this a most moving experience, each poppy has been hand-made (and is therefore completely individual echoing each individual who gave their life) and they have been made by volunteers who all have a connection with the armed forces.

We felt privileged and humbled to have contributed to this moving artwork.

(Apologies for the quality of the photo, taken on my smartphone).