Thousands of Handmade Poppies to Transform Southend Pier in Moving Tribute to the Fallen
Southend’s world-famous pier will be awash with red this November as it becomes the backdrop for a moving and ambitious tribute to the fallen.
Southend’s world-famous pier will be awash with red this November as it becomes the backdrop for a moving and ambitious tribute to the fallen.
In the lead-up to Remembrance Day, the city’s iconic 1.33-mile pier — the longest pleasure pier in the world — will be transformed by thousands of hand-knitted and crocheted poppies in a community-driven installation titled Poppies on the Pier.
Nationwide Call to Craft
Running from 5 November to 16 November 2025, the large-scale “yarnbomb” display promises to be a powerful visual memorial, combining creativity, civic pride, and remembrance.
It is open to contributions from across the country, with local residents, crafting groups, schools, and individuals encouraged to get involved. The initiative is capturing attention with 1,243 knitted and crocheted poppies already donated from crafters all across the UK.
Southend City Council says support for this heartfelt project has been nothing short of inspiring — but with the pier’s entire length set to be adorned, many more are still needed!
Crafters of all skill levels are encouraged to join in — whether you can knit or crochet one poppy or a hundred, each contribution adds to the powerful message of unity and remembrance. Those who don’t craft are equally welcome to take part by making green yarn chains to link the poppies together or by volunteering to help with installation in early November.
“This is a wonderful idea from our Visit Southend team,” said Councillor Matt Dent, cabinet member for business, culture, music and tourism. “It will help bring our community together to create something truly memorable, while instilling a sense of civic pride.”
Reflecting Southend’s Wartime Role
The tribute will culminate in a dramatic installation at the pier’s selfie signpost, creating a reflective space for contemplation and honouring Southend’s unique wartime history, including its role as HMS Leigh during the Second World War.
“As well as being a poignant tribute,” Cllr Dent continued, “I expect the display will give a welcome boost to tourism during the quieter off-peak season and reinforce Southend’s reputation as a creative, community-focused city that proudly supports those who serve, and remembers and honours the fallen.”
Local museums, galleries and cultural organisations are also backing the initiative, offering workshops, storytelling events and exhibitions to deepen community participation.
The deadline for poppy donations is Friday 26 September 2025.
For details on how to donate or get involved, visit the Visit Southend website or speak to your local library or community hub.