Thousands of handmade poppies crafted by MOD Abbey Wood "Cascade Crew" colleagues for Remembrance Day
Published 10 November 2026
A striking cascade of 5,000 handcrafted poppies, created by more than 100 colleagues from MOD Abbey Wood, will form the focal point of this year's Remembrance Day commemorations at the MOD's National Armaments Director (NAD) Group headquarters.
The unique installation hangs in the atrium of a building at Abbey Wood and has been created by colleagues, supported by their friends, family members and neighbours, in a remarkable community effort spanning almost a year.
The cascade project, which is the first of its kind for the NAD Group, began in January 2026 as a simple "knit and natter" idea. Since then, volunteers have given up their spare time to meet monthly online and in person to knit, crochet, weave and handcraft thousands of individual poppies and leaves, transforming a small wellbeing initiative into a major act of remembrance. Originally aiming to create 3,000 poppies, volunteers exceeded all expectations by producing more than 5,000.
The project has provided participants with opportunities to learn new skills, build friendships and take time out of their busy schedules using dedicated volunteer hours. Volunteers ranging from complete beginners to experienced crafters have helped each other develop knitting and crochet skills, using donated materials including wool, felt, buttons, crochet hooks and knitting needles.
As well as supporting Remembrance, participants have described the initiative as therapeutic and beneficial for their wellbeing, with many using lunch breaks to contribute to the project, connect with colleagues and take time to reflect.
Jo Litten, the NAD Group Corporate Business Partner who spearheaded the initiative, said:
"The Poppy cascade reflects the very best of MOD Abbey Wood: service, teamwork and remembrance. It has brought together colleagues, families and friends in a shared act of reflection and well-being, while creating a lasting community built on connection, kindness and common purpose."
The display also features six handcrafted Armed Forces figures representing the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force. Colleagues, serving members of the Armed Forces and local dignitaries including Claire Hazelgrove MP will be in attendance at the Remembrance Day service at the site on 11 November.
NAD Group colleague and volunteer Amanda Seevaratnum added:
"It has been really cathartic to go and tie poppies. When everything else around has been full on it's been my little moment of calm. I have met some wonderful people, that I would not have met any other way, and there has been a real passion. The whole endeavour just makes me smile and I feel very lucky to have been involved."
Excess poppies will be made into commemorative pin badges to continue fundraising efforts for the Royal British Legion.
Louise Dolen, Poppy Appeal Organiser for Bristol and South Gloucestershire, said:
"The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal relies on the support and dedication of its volunteers, and few embody that commitment more than the team at MOD Abbey Wood. Led by our outstanding volunteer Poppy Appeal organiser, Jo Litten, last year alone the team incredibly raised over £19,000, helping the Royal British Legion continue to support the Armed Forces community, whatever the need and whenever it is needed."
The cascade will remain on display until 11 November and forms part of wider Abbey Wood Remembrance activities.
