Southend Pier to be lined with thousands of handmade poppies for Remembrance Day

May 27, 2025

Southend’s award-winning pier is set to become the centrepiece of an ambitious ‘yarnbomb’ tribute this November, as thousands of knitted and crocheted red poppies are installed along its entire 1.33-mile stretch in the lead-up to Remembrance Day.

Running from 5 to 16 November 2025, the Poppies on the Pier display will transform the world’s longest pleasure pier into a striking visual memorial. Contributions are welcomed from anyone who wants to take part – whether a local resident or someone further afield.

Every handmade poppy donated will help honour those lost in conflict and bring people together through creativity and remembrance.

The display will culminate in a dramatic installation at the pier’s selfie signpost, creating a space for remembrance, contemplation, and celebration of Southend’s heritage – including its historic role as HMS Leigh during the Second World War.

Cllr Matt Dent, cabinet member for business, culture, music and tourism, said: “This is a wonderful idea from our Visit Southend team and will help bring our community together to create something truly memorable, while instilling a sense of civic pride.

“As well as being a poignant tribute, I expect the display will give a welcome boost to tourism and visitor numbers on the pier 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.”

Crafters of all skill levels are encouraged to get involved by knitting or crocheting red poppies. Whether you can make one or one hundred, every contribution matters.

Those who can’t knit or crochet are also welcome to take part by creating green yarn chains to link the poppies or volunteering to help with installation in early November.

The initiative is being supported by local museums, galleries and cultural partners, offering further opportunities for participation, storytelling and remembrance.

The deadline for poppy donations is Friday 26 September 2025.

For free knitting and crochet patterns, design inspiration, and full details on how and where to donate, visit: www southendpier.co.uk/poppies.