To mark the centenary of the end of the First World War, the women of the Sowood Women’s Institute created the Sowood Poppy Trail — a series of memorial walks through Sowood and nearby Stainland, inspired by the area’s heavy wartime losses. Recycled plastic benches and picnic tables were installed along the routes, giving walkers places to rest, reflect and enjoy the surrounding Yorkshire landscape.
Table of Contents
- The Sowood Women’s Institute created the Sowood Poppy Trail to commemorate local lives lost in World War I.
- The project includes memorial sculptures, life-size “Unknown Soldier” silhouettes and four walking routes.
- Recycled plastic benches and picnic tables were installed at scenic points along the trails.
- Plaques on each bench help preserve local history and encourage future generations to learn more.
A History of Sowood
Sowood in the 21st century is a delightful village of a few thousand people perched atop the Yorkshire moors. Its picturesque stone-built houses and churches give the impression of peaceful permanence; it’s hard to imagine much upheaval in this quintessentially Northern idyll.
A century ago, however, the story was very different – the echo of the First World War’s insane detonation still rang in every ear. Like so many other parts of Europe, Sowood and the surrounding towns had suffered unimaginable loss in humanity’s first mechanised mass destruction.
The population of these high eyries was then much smaller, little more than farming hamlets with a pub and shop each, yet in Sowood the losses approached almost a hundred service people – virtually an entire generation of young men wiped out. One village street became known as ‘Spinster Lane’ for its especially high proportion of grieving widows.
This was the heartbreaking story uncovered by Sowood’s Women’s Institute while preparing for WWI centenary celebrations. The WI are a wonderfully can-do bunch, and they began to make plans for a memorial that would gift the people of Sowood with real resources for generations to come.
Sowood Memorial Walks & Recycled Plastic Benches
Using funds raised from EU pots, local council contributions and a jam-and-Jerusalem WI gala, they commissioned a new memorial sculpture for a local park and life-size silhouettes of the Unknown Soldier to be placed along the routes of four planned memorial walks.
To highlight these routes and to offer rest stops for walkers, they ordered British Recycled Plastic benches and picnic tables in commemorative red-and-black.
The benches were assembled and installed by volunteers and WI members at the start of Autumn. Most were placed at points around Sowood and Stainland where they would provide a welcome break to hikers and residents. Some were also located in secluded and beautiful spots ideal for quiet contemplation or picnicking.
Each piece of furniture was also given a plaque inscribed ‘Let those who come after see to it that his name be not forgotten.’
Jackie Swire, head of Sowood WI, explained:
‘We wanted to make sure that people of all ages would understand the significance of the Poppy Trail, and to hopefully inspire people who perhaps don’t know as much about this important part of our history to go and find out more.’
Jackie took British Recycled Plastic’s Scott Hutchinson on a tour of the Poppy Trail sites, and he brought back these pictures. We’re very proud to have been able to contribute our recycled plastic benches to such a beautiful memorial, and we wish the people of Sowood and Stainland many happy years of walking and picnicking along their new trails. They’re well worth a visit if you get a chance – visit https://sowoodwi.com/poppy-trail for more information on the walks and on the region’s experience of World War 1.
We’re Here To Help
Inspired by Sowood WI’s choice of recycled plastic benches? You can shop the full range online, or speak to our friendly team about your specific project on 01422 419 555 or info@britishrecycledplastic.oc.uk.
Written by the British Recycled Plastic team.
Updated May 2026
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As the material is chemically inert, it is very difficult to get paint to adhere to the surface. This is a bit plus point for furniture at risk of vandalism, but it makes it harder if you want polka dots and butterflies on yours.
British Recycled Plastic offers a range of benches designed to provide a lasting tribute to loved ones. Our benches are crafted from durable, maintenance-free recycled plastic, ensuring they withstand the elements and remain beautiful and creating memories for years to come.
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With British recycled plastic benches, you can enjoy a long-lasting, vibrant finish without the need for painting or additional treatments. They’re built to look great for years with minimal effort. Our benches come in a range of styles and colours and our expert team are on hand 5 days a week to support you with colour choices etc.
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