Cherished veteran belongings go on display at The Poppy Factory

An exciting new exhibition, at The Poppy Factory in Richmond, is encouraging visitors to reflect on the relationship between treasured possessions and the experiences of their veteran owners.

Four new displays make up the exhibition. And some surprising items include a karate black belt, a nurse’s fob watch and a vintage eight-track music cartridge.

All the belongings have special memories for the veterans who also have a close connection with the 100 year old charity.

All guests who book to visit over the summer will receive a limited edition Platinum Jubilee postcard of The Queen’s first visit to The Poppy Factory in 1946, as Princess Elizabeth.

Funds raised through ticket sales go directly to The Poppy Factory’s employment service, which helps hundreds of veteran each year across England and Wales to transform their lives.

In addition an extra date has been added to discovery sessions running throughout July, August and September. These sessions give individuals visitors and small groups the chance to explore the whole of the visitor centre and meet the factory team.

Each discovery session is led by an expert host. Guests can explore veterans’ stories and the history of The Poppy Factory, meet the production team and try making their own poppy.

Visitors can also enjoy tea, coffee and artisan cakes in the shaded comfort of The Poppy Factory’s café, or outside on the sunny terrace.

Tickets are available online for the discovery sessions on Wednesday 20 July (11am), Monday 25 July (11am), Tuesday 2 August (11am and 2:30pm), Friday 12 August (11am), Thursday 18 August (3pm), Monday 22 August (3pm), Tuesday 13 September (3pm) and Monday 19 September (11am and 3pm).

Larger groups are also encouraged to book visits this summer and throughout the year.