THREADS OF REMEMBRANCE

Threads of Remembrance: A community tribute for VE Day 80

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe, Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust and Nucleus Arts, supported by Medway Council, are coming together to create a striking installation of 11,000 handcrafted crochet poppies. This tribute will be displayed at the National Destroyer Memorial within The Historic Dockyard Chatham, honouring those who served and sacrificed during the Second World War.

Honouring the fallen

HMS CAVALIER, now preserved at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, was one of 96 emergency destroyers built for the war effort between 1940 and 1942. Today, she stands as a lasting memorial to the 142 Royal Navy destroyers lost during the war and the 11,000 men who gave their lives in service. Alongside her, a unique bronze artwork and Roll of Honour pay tribute to these ships and their crews, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten.

Get involved

The poppy installation will be unveiled during The Historic Dockyard Chatham’s Salute to the '40s festival in September and remain on display until Armistice Day. To bring this ambitious vision to life, we are calling on the community to take part in this special tribute.

If you're a keen knitter or crocheter, we need your help. Join us in crafting 11,000 poppies and be part of this unforgettable act of remembrance.

For full details on how to contribute, visit thedockyard.co.uk