Royal Wootton Bassett's residents appeal for funding to replace 'very dear' poppy statue
The original monument collapsed in 2017.
Last updated 5th Nov 2020
As we approach Remembrance Sunday, residents and businesses in our region are being encouraged to donate for an emotive local cause.
After Royal Wootton Bassett's 'Forever Poppy' monument collapsed in 2017, a local committee formed to fundraise for a redesign.
The marble statue commemorated 355 British servicemen and women who died on the frontline in Iraq and Afghanistan, before being repatriated to RAF Lyneham.
It's thought a bronze replacement would cost an estimated ÂŁ290,000.
'Our repatriation ceremony is unique'
Tom Patterson, who is leading the group, said: "This cause is very dear to the hearts of all Royal Wootton Bassett residents – our repatriation ceremony is unique in the sense that the high street comes to a complete standstill on Armistice Day in order to honour the fallen.
“We need help in funding this important commemorative symbol for the brave service men and women who have risked their lives for this country.
“We have been very pleased with the community support thus far and are delighted to already have an exceptional artist in Stephen Pettifer working on the redesign".
Work is now underway on sculpting a replacement, which could take a year to complete.
The committee hopes to generate sufficient funds to place the new poppy back on its original plinth.
Elsewhere, Swindon Town has confirmed the club will be paying its respects for those who have fallen during their FA Cup fixture against Darlington on Saturday 7 November.
Players will hold a two-minute silence before the match, as well as wearing dedicated armbands and having poppies printed on their shirts.