RUNCORN residents are being invited to pay their respects on Remembrance Day by creating homemade poppies.

In a year where many of the usual ceremonies cannot take place due to the pandemic, Runcorn Shopping Centre is leading a project where handcrafted poppies will be placed on display in the Remembrance Garden in the Community Square, alongside contributions from schools.

Jackie Coulthard, from the central management team, said: “People can either draw a poppy, colour a template of a poppy, paint a rock or even knit one if they’re feeling creative.

"We really don’t mind how it’s done, we just want to include as many as possible. We are so proud of our annual Remembrance Garden, it has been a success over the years.

"We thought this year it would be a great opportunity to help the community come together during these uncertain times, especially since traditional memorial services will be cancelled. It’s also a fun activity to do with the kids.”

For a poppy template or for more information, visit the Runcorn Shopping City Facebook page.