This year the service was in the presence of HRH The Duchess of Gloucester. The First Field of Remembrance was held in 1928, organised by George Arthur Howson, an officer in the First World War and founder and Chairman of the Poppy Factory. Now in its 98th year, it began with 30,000 poppies being planted before a member of the factory staff designed a small wooden stake with a poppy at its centre, which allowed for a personal message before planting. It is these messages of yours that were written by Clive Summerson and planted in the plot on Tuesday. Carl Lewis, a member of the Royal British Legion donated 100 crosses which was extremely generous.

Clive Summerson and planting the Crosses

This year we achieved 103 dedications and your generous donations raised £1,090 so after the cost of the plot and the Field Crosses we have a contribution towards the Association of nearly £1,000.

The Gallipoli Association Plot

The service started with the arrival of HRH the Duchess of Gloucester who was met by the Dean of Westminster, The very Reverend David Hoyle KCVO, MBE. This was followed by prayer and HRH laying a wreath before the Last Post sounded by a Bugler from the Band of the Scots Guards.

Bugler from the Band of the Scots Guards

The Exhortation to Remembrance was read by Vice Admiral Sir David Steel, KBE, KStJ, DL President of The Poppy Factory.

At 11.00am a two-minute silence was observed after which the Kohima Epitaph was read by Vice Admiral Paul Bennett CB, OBE, National President of the Royal British Legion, after which her Royal Highness was invited to view the plots.

HRH the Duchess of Gloucester

Unlike last year when HRH The Queen stopped and spoke with Clive, this year we have to make do with the back of his head as she passed by.

Duchess of Gloucester Passing the Gallipoli Association Plot

From left to right in the photo are the GA members who were successful in receiving a ticket for the service: Hester Huttenbach, Robert Lee, Nigel Divers, David Matthews and Carl Lewis.

Gallipoli Association Members at the Plot

Thank you to everyone who supported us again this year and for those of you who did so for the first time.

Hester Huttenbach

Gallipoli Association Trustee, Events Coordinator and Quartermaster

Clive Summerson at the Gallipoli Association Plot

Gallipoli Association Members in Attendance

Note: All photos on this page were contributed by Frances Speakman, Clive Summerson and Hester Huttenbach