Manchester City Council has announced a new partnership with The Royal British Legion, aimed at recognising and honouring the sacrifices made by the UK’s Armed Forces.
The partnerships will run for three years and will be marked by a series of commemorative events taking place across the city throughout the year – including Remembrance Sunday, Armistice Day and other community events.
The collaboration reflects Manchester’s enduring commitment to supporting veterans, service personnel, and their families, while fostering greater public understanding of the contributions and sacrifices made by the Armed Forces community. As well as the millions of Armed forces veterans from the Commonwealth including African, Caribbean and South Asian communities.
The Royal British Legion plays a vital role in advocating for and supporting those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces. And through this partnership, the council will work closely with the Legion to deliver meaningful events and initiatives that engage residents, schools, local organisations and Friends Groups.
One of the most poignant tributes will be the extensive street dress and installation of lamppost poppies across areas of Manchester where themed events are taking place in the lead-up to Remembrance Day.
The poppy flower, a historical symbol of remembrance and respect, will be an ode to commemorating the city’s proud history and ongoing solidarity with the Armed Forces.
Large poppies will be hung in key locations across the city where Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day events are taking place, as well as events and activities in parks, cemeteries and libraries, and war memorial sites. Poppies will also be sold at Heaton Park, Boggart Hole Clough Lakeside Cafe and Wythenshawe Park Cafe Courtyard. Libraries city-wide will also sell poppies on behalf of the RBL for the first time.
Remembrance Day will be marked on Sunday 9 November with the annual event in St Peter’s Square, including symbolic maroon blast. Further events and activities will also take place in parks, schools, libraries and other community settings to take the memorial city-wide.
