Aylesbury's Brenda creates beautiful poppy display for Royal British Legion

Resident Brenda Hayes, who is turning 90 on 12 November, from Anchor’s Buckingham Lodge care home made a white tree decorated with hand knitted poppies in honour of all who have served.

Throughout the process of making the display, Brenda was sponsored by well-wishers and members of the public who donated money to The Royal British Legion in response to her efforts.

So far, she has raised £175 with more donations coming in every day!

Brenda moved to Buckingham Lodge in 2016 and for the past few years enjoyed knitting memorial items for Remembrance Day and the Royal British Legion. This year, she was absolutely delighted to discover that her work had inspired so many donations for such a worthy cause.

She said: “I hope we raise a lot of money because the soldiers need everyone’s support. I enjoyed making the poppies. This year was my first year making a purple poppy as well, in memory of all the animals that have served in wars.

“I think that it’s important everyone remembers those who have died in battle. It links people of my generation to younger people. I hope they will appreciate what those in the forces did for them during the World Wars and are continuing to do for them now.”

Jenny West, manager of Buckingham Lodge, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that Brenda has managed to raise so much money with her knitting! She said from the off she wanted to do something special for the Royal British Legion this year and she’s certainly managed it!

“The poppy tree will take pride of place in our lounge and will serve as an important part of our Remembrance Day events.”

Buckingham Lodge have advised all those wishing to donate to Brenda’s fundraiser can find the donation link here