Thanks from Ypres for knitted Remembrance poppies

The poppies were used to decorate the church town for the 100th anniversary of Armistice.

Patricia Hawkins-Windsor, vice-chairman, of St George’s Memorial Church, said: “I have been asked to let you know how very much your churches’ work in Carrickfergus, and that of their friends, contributed to the commemorations of the 100 years since the signing of the Armistice of the First World War in which so many lads from our town and countryside also foundered, never to return home.

“Could you please let everyone know how much the church’s 600 knitted and crocheted poppies are appreciated. Their work is magnificient and we know that those who made them movingly stitched at the same time their special thoughts, love and prayers into each one.

“The effect of these poppies which are displayed inside the church, also on the outside tower, doors and railings is stunning.

“During the Armistice Day Remembrance Sunday weekend, over ten thousand visitors, people young and old, visited to view the electrifying effect.

It is impossible for me to be able to mention individually the names of all those who knitted the poppies, but please be assured of my and of St. George’s Church council members’ individual thanks.

“The response from Carrickfergus has been overwhelming. 0ur boys who sleep here in Flanders Fields, could only be profoundly touched.

“St. George’s also welcomed the presence of Carrick’s deputy mayor Cllr Cheryl Johnston and Ald. May Beattie, who attended on behalf of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.”