A MAGNIFICENT sea of poppies has taken the spotlight in Bude over the last week, marking 100 years since the end of the First World War and paying a poignant tribute to the lives of those lost in the conflict.

English teacher at Budehaven School, Harry Pearce, came up with the idea to create a sea of red poppies cascading from the memorial at Shalder Hill towards the town — a stunningly visual tribute. The project has commemorated 100 years since the end of the First World War, when the guns finally fell silent on November 11, 1918, after four years of hostilities.

It took several thousand poppies to make the special wave of remembrance, with help from Budehaven students, residents in Bude and people from further afield, including Liverpool and Scotland.

People were encouraged, in the lead up to the conclusion of the making of the tribute, to contribute in making a poppy to be added to the thousands secured to the huge piece of netting that has created the fitting display of remembrance.

Speaking before the tribute was displayed, Mr Pearce said: “Bude is proving to be a national treasure, and not because of a tunnel.”

Poppies were made from materials such as fabric and wool, at an approximate size of 10cm in diameter, and tied with string or cord.

Also helping with the organisation of the display was Clair Roberts from the Kitchen Front, who was pleased to be involved. She said: “It is literally to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One, and trying to connect the younger generation to the importance of remembrance and understanding the freedom that they have today was due to the sacrifice of so many young men.

“It is so far removed from their direct family, that it is difficult for them to comprehend. My age had grandparents who fought in World War One, so we are still connected to the reality and sacrifice made.”

On Sunday, November 4, a team of volunteers, including residents, crews from Bude Coastguard Rescue Team and representatives from Bude-Stratton Town Council, trekked across Bude with the huge net of poppies and arranged it beautifully upon Shalder Hill, letting it flow elegantly down towards the town — a magnificent sight for anyone entering the town centre. Bude-Stratton Town Council kindly cut the grass and cleaned the memorial to ensure the sight was particularly spectacular.

For more information, like the Poppy Wave Bude Facebook page. Bude-Stratton Town Council has created a page on the council’s website on poppies and their significance to remembrance. Visit www.bude-stratton.gov.uk/100-years-3000-poppies for more information.