WW1 centenary: Students visit poppy artwork

The special memorial featured 888,246 ceramic flowers which were placed at the tower before Remembrance Sunday to mark the 100 year anniversary of World War One and captured the hearts and minds of visitors from across the world.

Level Three Public Service students from the college travelled to the capital last week to help thousands of volunteers in removing the poppies and clearing the display.

It is believed that the students were among those who had travelled the furthest to take part.

The students were Leonie Anley-Webster from Grange Moor, Wakefield, Jason Wilson from Huddersfield, Robert Dolan from Meltham, James Morelli from Golcar, Neelam Zubair from Halifax, Anisa Sajid from Dewsbury, and Chloe Rowlands from Meltham.

Tutor Steph Mill said: “Students talked to other volunteers whilst working, explaining why they had chosen to take part.

“We were advised that we had travelled the furthest in order to help with the project.

“Students and staff were overwhelmed by the atmosphere and the significance of each individual poppy representing one fallen soldier in World War One.”

Jason Wilson said: “Picking the ceramic poppies within the Tower of London was a once in a lifetime experience.

“It was a very inspirational visit and I am proud that I had the chance to pay my respects.”

Neelam Zubair added: “This was a very memorable experience as each poppy represented every solider we’ve lost – it represents their courage and braveness and it felt amazing picking out the poppies.”

Progress Coach Rachel Laurence from the college attended in memory of her uncle, Edgar Bamforth (1893-1914).

He was killed at Battle of Somme aged just 21.

Last week students from Public Service also represented the college at the Remembrance Parade in Huddersfield.