Rochdale shopping centre launches commemorative school project

Poppy pathway created by pupils in the grounds at Broadfield Community School in commemoration of last year’s Remembrance Day

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of WW1, Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre is inviting local primary schools to be part of its commemorative poppy display and have asked young pupils across the town to produce their own poppy-themed creations to mark this milestone anniversary.

With 30 schools having been asked to take part, already the response has been overwhelming. 

Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre manager, Lorenzo O’Reilly, said: “Our aim is to produce a poppy display that is not only a symbol of remembrance but also a meaningful project that young people in Rochdale can be part of. This will be a lovely way in which to create something truly beautiful as well as a fitting tribute to our war heroes.”

Children will able to make their poppies out of any material they want and is an opportunity for them to interpret the project brief in their own way. Once complete, the artwork will be exhibited in the centre for everyone to enjoy and will be available to see throughout November.

Schools can also produce a piece of work that is representative of this historic era that will also be on view in one of the centre’s vacant units.

Lorenzo concludes: “This will be a real coming together of our young community and a chance for them to put their own stamp on remembering this significant time in our history. We are really looking forward to seeing their handiwork in what I’m sure will be a wonderful collaborative piece that will honour Armed Forces veterans who battled for our freedom.”

For more information on the commemorative poppy display at Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre, please visit

• www.rochdaleexchange.co.uk