Remembrance commemorations at Durham Cathedral are set to begin early. In addition to the usual Sunday services, this year will see thousands of poppies falling from the roof of the ancient church on Satuday evening.
Exactly 26, 204 poppies will be released – each of the paper flowers represents a life lost on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Jutland, two of the most devastating days of World War One.
Though remembrance events mark both world wars and other conflicts, there is currently a special focus on the First World War, which was taking place exactly 100 years ago.
The Durham Cathedral event is one of thousands around the country – and takes place in an especially significant setting. The Shrine of St Cuthbert is one of the most historic and important places in early British Christianity.
Poppies have long been worn as a mark of respect at this time of year. Recent times have seen an upswing in their use in other ways, including an installation at the Tower of London two years ago which saw a vast collection of ceramic poppies assembled.
2018 will mark the end of the centenary commemorations of the First World War.
