On Thursday 8 May, Buckler’s Hard proudly joins the nation in marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day. To remember the courage, sacrifice and resilience of those who served, the team at the 18th century village of Buckler’s Hard in the New Forest have worked together to create a meaningful visual to mark the anniversary.
Over the winter months, members of the Buckler’s Hard team dedicated their time and care to knitting and crocheting hundreds of poppies. These handmade poppies have been arranged on a large cargo net to form a striking “memorial curtain”, which is displayed outside the entrance of the Buckler’s Hard Museum.
Buckler’s Hard Assistant Manager, Sharon, said, “When we found out that this year marked the 80th anniversary, we knew we wanted to do something special to mark the occasion. It felt like an important moment to remember and show our appreciation for everything those who served gave up for us.”
The poppy display will remain in place until Friday 9 May, allowing visitors to pause and reflect as they enter the museum during this significant week. It will also return to the museum front later in the year to mark Remembrance Sunday.
Buckler’s Hard holds a unique connection to the events of WWII. It served as a motor torpedo base and played a role in building parts of the Mulberry Harbour, a vital infrastructure for the D-Day landings. While not all vessels and crews completed their missions, their stories begin here, on the Beaulieu River, and they are honoured and remembered by the display.
