SOLIHULL will fall silent this Sunday to remember those who gave their lives for freedom.
As well as paying tribute to fallen servicemen and women, this year also marks 80 years since the D-Day landings in Normandy during the Second World War.
Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Solihull West and Shirley MP and former Medical Officer in the Royal Army Medical Corp, volunteered with the Royal British Legion in Solihull to help fundraise for the Poppy Appeal.
He said: “The Poppy Appeal is an opportunity for the nation to remember the service of our veterans and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. We must never forget what our servicemen and women do, and have done, for our country. It is through their acts that we protect our way of life.
“I commend the work of the Royal British Legion who support our Armed Forces members, past and present, and their families with a wide range of services. It was tremendous to see how busy the stand was and to sell so many poppies on Saturday, thank you to residents who have supported the Poppy Appeal.”
Dr Shastri-Hurst also praised Ann Bocock and Suzette Maguire who have created a canopy of hand knitted poppies at St Alphege Church in Solihull.
The display is made of 8,000 hand knitted poppies and will be on display for all to see at the Remembrance Sunday service and parade as well as for the Armistice Day commemorations.
The Conservative MP said: “The poppy canopy is a truly breathtaking mark of respect to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms. The canopy is stunning and I encourage residents to visit in the lead up to Remembrance Day.
“My wife, an enthusiast crocheter, was honoured to contribute to the display. During our meeting, on behalf of my constituents in Solihull West and Shirley, I was able to give our sincere thanks to Ann and Suzette for their outstanding work.”
