Tremendous response for poppies volunteers

More than 60 people have put their names forward to help care for a spectacular display of ceramic poppies at St Magnus Cathedral.

The volunteers will play an important role in looking after the poppies during their time in Orkney.

Earlier this year, 14-18 NOW, the UK’s official arts programme for the First World War centenary, announced that that Poppies: Weeping Window will go on display at the cathedral from April 22 to June 12 – to commemorate 100 years since the Battle of Jutland.

Orkney Islands Council has worked with Voluntary Action Orkney to recruit volunteer hosts for the poppies display.

“There’s been a tremendous response – we are really pleased that so many people have offered their help in caring for the poppies,” said Orkney Islands Council arts officer Antony Mottershead.

“We’d like to thank everyone who’s volunteered. Being on hand to welcome visitors, answer questions and share in their response to the display should be a memorable experience for everyone involved.”

Full training will be given and the volunteer hosts will be supported by cathedral staff.

Poppies: Weeping Window is from the installation Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red – poppies and original concept by artist Paul Cummins and installation designed by Tom Piper – by Paul Cummins Ceramics Limited in conjunction with Historic Royal Palaces.

The installation was originally at the Tower of London in 2014 where 888,246 poppies were displayed, one to honour every death in the British and Colonial forces of the First World War.

At the cathedral, Poppies: Weeping Window will be open seven days a week from 9am to 8pm.

Preliminary work will be carried out over the coming weeks in preparation for the installation of the poppies.