Pin Your Poppy 2026: Who’s your ‘Unknown Tommy’?

Residents, families, schools, and community groups across West Mercia are being encouraged by Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion to once again play their part in a shared act of remembrance by creating and pinning poppies onto six ‘Unknown Tommy’ statues ahead of Remembrance Day. 

After hundreds of handmade poppies were proudly created and displayed on the statues last year, this year the PCC is inviting communities to share the story of their ‘Tommy’ with their poppy; making the ‘Unknown Tommy’ known, in a moving tribute to servicemen and women. 

The six statues can be found outside police stations in Telford (Wellington), Malvern, Shrewsbury (Monkmoor), Hereford, Kidderminster and at West Mercia Police Headquarters in Hindlip. 

In November, the statues will be gathered together for a wreath-laying ceremony to remember those on the poppies, as well as former police officers and members of the Armed Forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the protection of others.

First introduced in 2022, the ‘Unknown Tommy’ statues provide a focal point for reflection, remembrance and community participation.

The PCC and West Mercia Police proudly support the Armed Forces community, with many former service personnel continuing their dedication to public service by joining the force as either an officer or police staff.

The PCC also funds Remember Veterans, a programme that provides dedicated support to military veterans who are in contact with, or at risk of becoming involved in, the criminal justice system.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: "Remembrance is about people, their stories and the sacrifices they made for future generations.

“Military personnel, like many frontline police officers, make significant sacrifices in service, often spending time away from their loved ones not knowing what challenges lie ahead.

"The ‘Unknown Tommy’ statues are a physical reminder of that sacrifice so that we can live safely and free from fear.

“The statues also give communities a chance to come together, to remember, and honour those who served.

“I hope even more communities will get involved this year as we pay tribute to the brave men and women who dedicated their lives to keeping others safe."

Further information:

• As the statues will be displayed outdoors, poppies should be made from materials suitable for all weather conditions.
• For more information and inspiration on creating poppies, including a template to share your ‘Tommy’s’ story on, visit: Pin Your Poppy | West Mercia PCC