More than 8,000 poppies have been donated towards a remembrance project marking 100 years since the end of the First World War.

People from across Maidstone have helped with the #5000Poppies project by creating an installation of handmade poppies at Maidstone Museum.

The town's MP Helen Grant was one of the ministers responsible for the planning and commencement of the First World War centenary commemorations in 2014 and was touched to receive her very own handmade poppy during the visit.

She said: “The installation of the poppies is truly striking and beautiful, but the personal stories behind each handmade poppy is what makes the display so special.

"I would encourage anyone to visit in remembrance of the thousands who gave their lives, from Kent and all around the world, so that we can live in peace.”

Video: Maidstone's display of 5000 poppies

Mrs Grant's poppy was created by Sarah Willis, who had only learnt to knit at the start of the project, but then went on to produce several more that will be displayed in the Café Culture at the museum.

"Two years ago I faced the biggest challenge I will ever face, I have to cope with the pain of losing a son at a time when he was setting out on his career," she said.

"I was given support from family, friends and the community around me.

"For this reason I wanted to give something back that would give pleasure and hopefully a sense of community spirit to every person that looks at the display of poppies, bearing in mind at the time I did not even know what knitting was or how to do it.

"With help from my friends and family I soon mastered it and added green leaves to give a finishing touch.’’

Sarah Leipnik, running the project on behalf of Golding Homes, which also played a major role, added: “We wanted to organise a project that would bring communities together and we thought that 5,000 poppies would be a great way to do that.

"We are so proud of the effort and enthusiasm shown by everyone from schools, businesses, craft groups and individuals.

"The poppies we have received are all individual and beautiful, it’s been amazing."