Wrexham’s ‘Poppy Wave’ Bid Unsuccessful

Wrexham’s bid to bring an iconic, commemorative poppy wave to the town centre has been unsuccessful.

In June this year we reported that locations across Wales were being asked to bid for the opportunity to host an iconic poppy sculpture, marking the centenary of the beginning of the First World War.

Two parts of the original Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, which attracted millions of visitors during its time at the Tower of London, will be displayed at locations across the UK in 2015 and 2016. The ‘Wave’ and ‘Weeping Window’ have been saved for the nation by the Backstage Trust and the Clore Duffield Foundation, and gifted to 14-18 NOW and Imperial War Museums.

A bid to host the Poppy Wave was submitted by Wrexham Council, with plans put forward to host the iconic sculpture on Llwyn Isaf.

However it has been revealed today that Wrexham’s bid to host the poppy wave has been unsuccessful, with Wrexham Council stating they are ‘disappointed’ with the news.

Armed Forces Champion, Cllr David Griffiths, said: “I am naturally disappointed that the bid was unsuccessful. It was a good bid and we will be presenting another to host the iconic poppies when the opportunity arises.”

Cllr Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, said: “I am of course very disappointed that the poppies will not be coming to Wrexham next year.

“I am hopeful however that the next bid will be successful. I would like to thank staff involved who have been very enthusiastic about bringing the poppies to Wrexham, for their hard work in preparing the bid.”

Two parts of the original Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, which attracted millions of visitors during its time at the Tower of London, will be displayed at locations across the UK in 2016. It has also been announced today that Caernarfon has won their bid to host the iconic display.