Penarth came together in extraordinary numbers this November, with hundreds gathering at the town’s Cenotaph to pay their respects, while the 2026 Poppy Appeal celebrated another remarkable display of community spirit.

An estimated 700 people attended this year’s Remembrance Sunday service, held at a new location beside the Cenotaph. It is believed to be the first time since the 1980s that a Remembrance service has taken place at this location, making the occasion particularly significant for the town.

Despite facing a number of challenges in the preparations, the Remembrance Committee, with the backing of Penarth Town Council and overwhelming public support, delivered a moving and well-attended occasion.

Veterans, serving personnel, cadets, community representatives and residents gathered to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and to remember the men and women who have served, and continue to serve, in our Armed Forces.

The impressive turnout was a powerful demonstration of Penarth’s enduring commitment to remembrance, bringing generations together in a shared moment of reflection.

A community effort

Alongside the service, this year’s Poppy Appeal has highlighted just how much can be achieved when a community works together.

For Penarth’s Poppy Appeal Organiser, Karen Jones, completing a first year in the role has been an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary generosity of local people.

From volunteers staffing collection points at Tesco and Morrisons to the dedicated team keeping the Poppy Caravan running in all weathers, countless people have given their time to support the Royal British Legion’s annual appeal. Penarth’s Sea Cadets and Army Cadets have also played an important part, alongside volunteers who decorated lampposts with poppies throughout the town.

One of this year’s most striking contributions has been the Tree of Remembrance and the thousands of handmade poppies displayed on Penarth Pier. Around 6,000 knitted and crocheted poppies were donated, including approximately 3,000 created by the Knitters & Natters group at All Saints Church, who also raised £250 through knitting kit sales.

Local artists, members of Arth Gym, florists and businesses helped bring the displays to life, creating moments of reflection for residents and visitors alike. Snells Newsagents, Specsavers and Knights also supported the initiative by providing collection points for the handmade poppies.

The appeal received invaluable practical support from local organisations, including St Fagan’s pub, AXIOM, Autospray Accident Repair Specialists, the Conservative Club and OLPRO Everywhere, alongside Penarth Town Council and the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

A lasting message

While the final fundraising total is yet to be announced, the impact of this year’s appeal can already be seen across the town. From the hundreds who gathered at the Cenotaph to the volunteers who gave their time behind the scenes, this year’s commemorations have demonstrated the strength of Penarth’s community spirit. Above all, they have delivered a simple but powerful message: Penarth will not forget.