The Museum of the Mercian Regiment has launched a poignant community exhibition in preparation for Remembrance Day 2025, featuring an incredible display of over 1,000 handmade poppies created by local schoolchildren and community groups.
A Regiment's Rich History
The Mercian Regiment was formed in 2007 through the amalgamation of three historic regiments: The 22nd Cheshire Regiment, The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters, and The Staffordshire Regiment. Since its formation, the regiment has deployed worldwide and gained significant experience, particularly through its involvement in Afghanistan, making it one of the British Army's most experienced units.
Community Comes Together in Poppy Project
As part of a World War Two Project, the museum reached out to schools across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, inviting pupils to create poppies for a special commemorative display. The response was overwhelming, with the museum being inundated with contributions that have now found a permanent home in their gallery at Nottingham Castle.
More than 1,000 poppies were received from schools and community groups across both counties, creating a powerful visual tribute to those who served. The project forms part of VE and VJ Day commemorations and has been supported using public funding by the UK Government through Arts Council England.
Official Launch with Regimental Mascot
The exhibition was officially launched on Monday, November 10, at 11am, with a special appearance by Private Derby, the Regimental Mascot of the Mercian Regiment. The mascot was present at Nottingham Castle to greet contributors to the project and help inaugurate the moving display that now serves as a focal point for remembrance in the community.
This community-driven initiative demonstrates the ongoing importance of remembrance and the powerful role that local participation plays in keeping the memories of service and sacrifice alive for future generations.
