Greatest respect

A SEA of paper poppies have been planted in the grounds of an Oldham school as teenagers pay their respects to Britain’s fallen heroes.

Around 800 youngsters at Hathershaw College have written memorial messages on the back of the flowers after a week of learning about the First World War in lessons.

The poppies have now been put in the ground in the school’s memorial garden, where staff and pupils have been paying their respects.

Assistant principal Lorna Philip said: “Pupils have been talking about it in form time, discussing the history of it and why it’s important to remember the soldiers who fought.”

The project was suggested by head of humanities, Andy Potts, who has been covering “The Great War” in his lessons.

Now the pupils have a better understanding of the sacrifices made by Britain’s soldiers — and their messages of remembrance reflect this.

Ms Philips added: “Pupils have put a lot into it. They know what this weekend means.”