Sutton ATTFE College community hub launches Poppy Appeal for 2026 Remembrance Display
ATTFE College in Sutton is calling on local residents, community groups, knitters and crocheters to help create a spectacular poppy cascade as part of this year’s Remembrance Day commemorations.
Recently, veterans and volunteer directors at Together in Ashfield CIC Geoff Dixon and Jon Caunt visited the ATTFE College Community Hub coffee morning in Idlewells Shopping Centre to promote the Poppy Parade project and encourage members of the community to get involved in this meaningful initiative.
Working in partnership, ATTFE College is aiming to create a striking cascade of handmade red poppies that will be displayed prominently at the Cenotaph in Sutton as part of a special Remembrance Day installation.
The display will serve as a powerful tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for their country while providing a focal point for reflection within the local community.
The college is inviting people of all ages and abilities to contribute knitted or crocheted red poppies.
There is no limit on size or quantity – every poppy will help create a stunning visual tribute that honours the spirit of Remembrance.
Liz Barrett, OBE, DL, college principal, said: “ATTFE College is proud to lead the annual remembrance installations across Ashfield and remains committed to ensuring that, each year, they are created through an ‘in this together’ approach.
"We warmly encourage as many members of the community as possible to become involved, as by working together we can take time to reflect, remember and recognise the value of peace born from conflict.”
The project builds on the success of ATTFE College’s growing programme of remembrance activities.
In previous years, the college has worked with Ashfield Fire Station, local communities, organisations and volunteers to create and distribute Tommy silhouettes across Nottinghamshire, helping to ensure that remembrance is visible in towns, villages, schools, community venues and public spaces throughout the county.
The Tommy displays have become a recognisable symbol of remembrance, encouraging thousands of people to pause, reflect and remember the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces.
Through these initiatives, ATTFE College has demonstrated its commitment to preserving the memory of those who served while engaging younger generations in understanding the importance of Remembrance.
Jordan Stubbs, Remembrance project lead at the college, said: “Remembrance is an important opportunity for our community to come together, reflect and honour those who have given so much.
"We would love to see as many people as possible get involved by creating poppies and helping us build a display that truly represents remembrance, respect and community spirit.”
This year’s poppy cascade aims to build on that legacy, creating a striking centrepiece for Remembrance 2026 and bringing together individuals, families, community groups and local organisations in a shared act of remembrance.
Poppies can be dropped off at the ATTFE College Community Hub in Idlewells Shopping Centre during regular coffee mornings on Tuesdays between 10am and 12noon and Fridays between 11am and 1pm. Visitors are welcome to pop in, learn more about the project and speak with members of the team.
By working together, ATTFE College and the wider community, the college hope to create a fitting and memorable tribute that honours the fallen, supports the values of Remembrance and strengthens community connections across Ashfield and beyond.