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A breathtaking River of Poppies now cascades from the tower of Christ Church United Reformed Church in Port Sunlight, transforming the historic landmark into a powerful symbol of remembrance and community spirit.
A Community Effort from Heart to Hand
With a little help from the Green Watch team at Bromborough Community Fire Station, the impressive installation was brought to life — a striking flow of handcrafted poppies that tumble from the church tower to the ground, symbolizing rivers of red in honor of those who gave their lives in wars and conflicts across the globe.
The River of Poppies project was the vision of Debbie Stoft, who, alongside the church’s “Poppy Club” and countless local knitters, turned the concept into a beautiful reality. Volunteers from the Christ Church family, Port Sunlight community, and beyond joined in — including stitchers from Thornton Hough WI, the Port Sunlight Stitchers, and even crafters as far away as Mold, Worthing, and Australia.
Some dedicated knitters created more than 150 individual poppies, each one lovingly made to honor the fallen. In total, over 3,500 handmade poppies now form the breathtaking installation.
Want to have a go at knitting your own poppy but don’t know where to start? Reed offer a great course in knitting for beginners.
Many of these were created using a cashmerino yarn, Debbie Bliss offers a high quality option.
A Church Steeped in History
Built in 1904 as a gift from William Lever, founder of Lever Brothers, Christ Church is a Grade II listed building known for its Gothic architecture, red sandstone from Helsby, and York stone slate roof. Designed by William and Segar Owen, the church was constructed by Lever Brothers’ own building department — a lasting testament to the craftsmanship and community values that still define Port Sunlight today.
The church’s tower, now adorned with the River of Poppies, features eight bells, the heaviest weighing three-quarters of a ton. The bells, cast in Warrington by traditional bell founders who still use imperial measurements, will ring out once more on Armistice Day to mark lives lost in service.
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A Flowing Symbol of Remembrance
From the top of the tower, the poppies cascade like a red waterfall — a moving tribute that draws every eye toward the church. Each poppy represents remembrance, gratitude, and the unbroken connection between generations. It’s not only a visual masterpiece but also a labor of love, reflecting the unity, creativity, and compassion of those who came together to make it happen.
Not all of the poppies were knitted, many of the artists used hooks and crocheted their creations. This is a great kit for starting out with crochet, perhaps next year you could make one to be added to the installation.
Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Present
The Rev. Jan Smith of Christ Church expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the project, recognising it as a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together for a shared purpose.
“This River of Poppies stands as a living memorial,” said Rev. Smith. “It shows the depth of gratitude and remembrance within our village — a community committed to honouring those who served and sacrificed.”
Visit the River of Poppies
The River of Poppies installation at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Port Sunlight, is open for public viewing in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day. Visitors are invited to come, reflect, and remember — surrounded by beauty, history, and heartfelt community spirit.
Looking for somewhere to stay near Port Sunlight, the nearest YHA is at the Albert Dock, Liverpool.
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