World War One floral display an award-winner

World War One floral display an award-winner

A commemorative floral tribute which marks 100 years since the beginning of World War One has received a ‘Highly Commended for Excellence’ award from North West in Bloom.

The display in Broadfield Park of the classic poppy and a simple ‘1914 – 2014 Centenary’ message created a highly visible landmark to all traffic travelling along Manchester Road.

Councillor Alan McCarthy, Lead Member for Armed Forces, said: “We were proud to be able to commemorate the centenary of World War One with this flower bed prominently displayed to all visitors to Rochdale. It has served as a poignant reminder and helped bring a fantastic turnout to remembrance services across the borough.”

The flower bed was installed in July following a week of activity for Armed Forces Day. The recent cold weather meant that the flowers could not survive through until Remembrance Sunday - Alternanthera, the tender perennial used, can survive the winter if kept in a greenhouse but won’t survive outdoors.

However, the Council is to look at options to install another flower bed next year.