LOOK out for scarlet poppies springing up in Hillingdon to mark the centenary of the start of World War One.

The council is sowing poppy seeds at 21 locations, including parks, green spaces and grass verges, so that the poppies flourish over the summer. Signs will also be put up to show where the poppies have been planted.

Cadets from 191 (Uxbridge) Detachment have also been getting involved by volunteering to help plant poppy seeds at Cowley Recreation Ground.

Ricky Thomas, Adult Under Officer, said: "This has been a great opportunity for our cadets. Not only to contribute positively to their local community, but also to be a part of a wider project commemorating 100 years since the start of The Great War.

“It is extremely important that projects like this exist to spread awareness and ensure that those who fought for our freedom are never forgotten, especially with younger generations."

Poppies were first associated with war and Remembrance Day because they were the only flowers that would grow on the disturbed earth of battlefields in Western Europe.

Look out for the poppies at Frithwood Park, Northwood Recreation Ground, Yiewsley Recreation Ground, Cowley Recreation Ground, Hitherbroom Park, Stockley Roundabout, Warrender Park, Elmbridge Drive open space, Shenley Park, Pine Gardens/Bessingby Park, Minet Country Park, Knights Gardens, Swakeleys Park, Pole Hill open space, Grange Road, Meadow View open space, Hayes End Community Park, Harvil Road roundabout, Harvey Road open space, Cranford Park and Cowley Road (road verge).