2 October 2024
Jo Sheppard from St Edward's Church, Romford tells us of the church's World War I history, and how the community have come together to do something special to commemorate the town’s fallen soldiers.
"St Edward’s Church, Romford, has been “The Church in the Market Place” since 1410. We are really proud to be such a focal point in Romford’s history. Inside the church are the names of the sailors, soldiers and airmen from Romford, who in the defence of their country fell in World War I 1914-1918. We commemorate those who have fallen every year, but this time we wanted to do something really special.
"With the support of the local community, we have been working on some large poppy displays which will be both inside and outside the church throughout November. With the use of our website, and social media channels we have gone viral with the whole community crocheting and knitting, red and purple poppies for our display.
"We have been running some chat and sew sessions, where we have been joined by members of the local community – including the Women’s Institute, Parishioners and local groups. It has been a great opportunity for everyone to get to know each other whilst working on something that shows how important remembering the fallen is to our Romford Community.
"After attending one of our community sewing sessions, I realised this really is an amazing community project – it was fabulous to get involved and meet people that you would not necessarily have met before, the buzz in the church from us all working together was amazing.
"Rumour has it, art and craft shops in Romford are stocking up on red wool, due to the amount of people buying it!
"Please do keep us in your prayers as we still have the large display to complete!"
If you would like to keep up with St Edward's Church, Romford then you can do so by following them on Facebook and Instagram.