Unveiling of Lancaster Bomber Poppy Display
MEDIA CALL
What: Unveiling of Lancaster Bomber Poppy Display
When: Friday 25th April 2025, 08:00
Where: International Bomber Command Centre, Canwick Avenue, Lincoln, LN4 2HQ
Contact: Kate Strawson, 07733 230293
You are invited to attend a media call at the International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) in Lincoln for the official unveiling of a spectacular new poppy display ahead of this year’s VE Day 80 commemorations on 8th May.
Over 20,000 ceramic poppies have been arranged in the silhouette of a Lancaster Bomber – a powerful symbol of service and sacrifice. The installation, which is being officially unveiled on Friday, will remain in place throughout the summer as a lasting tribute to those who served during the Second World War.
The display has been created by artist Darius Sirmulevicius, originally from Lithuania but now living in Kirton, Lincolnshire. Each poppy is available to buy via the IBCC website and the proceeds will be donated to three charities: Lincolnshire Bomber Command Memorial, British West India Regiments Trust and the Wooden Spoon Trust.
The unveiling marks the launch of VE80 Lincoln, a unique event combining education, remembrance and sport which will take place across various locations in Lincolnshire between 8th and 11th May 2025.
As well as the poppy installation, visitors to the IBCC between now and August will also be able to see a new free exhibition on rugby’s forgotten wartime stories.
Timetable
08:00 Tea/coffee/bacon baps in the Hub Café
08:30 Welcome to the IBCC and the poppy display unveiling by IBCC CEO Nicky van der Drift
08:36 Introduction to The Memorial Rugby Project by Chairman and Co-Chair VE80 Lincoln John Dennison
08:39 The contribution of the Commonwealth and civilians by Co-Chair VE80 Lincoln Sue Liburd MBE DL
08:42 Final poppies planted by members from each of the nations/services
08:49 Formal ribbon cutting by the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire David Chambers DL
08:45 Photo/interview op
09:00 Ends
Also in attendance will be IBCC Chairman and former Chief of Air Staff ACM Sir Mike Graydon and Nick Peel from Stokes of Lincoln, whose great-uncle, Robert Donald Stokes, is included in the exhibition. Robert, who served with the Lincolnshire Regiment, 4th Battalion, was killed on 13th August 1944, aged 39 and is buried at Ranville Cemetery, Normandy, France. Late in 1922, he, along with other local men, reformed Lincoln Rugby Club. Over the years, he took on various roles as Captain, Secretary and several other senior positions.
Reporters, photographers and film crews are welcome to attend. Please call Kate at Shooting Star on 07733 230293 or email kate@weareshootingstar.co.uk to confirm your attendance.
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