An NHS worker from Wickford has been busy in the lead up to this year’s Remembrance Day by creating wreaths, large displays and ‘blinged up’ poppies in order to raise funds for the Royal British Legion.
Dawn Kirby, a healthcare professional who works for Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) at Mountnessing Court in Billericay, has always had a personal interest in World War Two after her father served in the Royal Artillery. He was passionate about ensuring that Dawn understood the history and importance of those who lost their lives to provide a better future.
Ten years ago, Dawn decided to start making poppies and selling them to friends and work colleagues. Her portfolio of items now includes paper poppies – one year she made over 300 – car and van poppies and a variety of different sized wreaths which have been used for displays in both her workplace and for her local Royal British Legion branch in Wickford.
Dawn is an avid supporter of the Royal British Legion – she has raised hundreds in donations over the last ten years and ensures that every penny goes back to the RBL.
She said, “We often have patients in our unit who have fought in the wars or had family who fought in them, and I have always enjoyed listening to their stories. This year I am working with my local branch of the RBL and look forward to continue making poppies and wreaths for many years to come.
“I hope that I have given a little back to those who gave so much to me and our country.”
You can see some of Dawn’s wreaths on display at the Wickford branch of the Royal British Legion.