WHEN Bolton friends Lillian Myerscough and Geraldine Childs watched the planting of the ceramic poppies at the Tower of London they shared the emotional experience with millions.

Then when it came to the removal of the 888, 246 red flowers these remarkable women joined thousands of others and volunteered to remove them stem by stem in a painstakingly delicate operation undertaken in difficult weather conditions.

Mrs Myerscough, aged 71, said she had been so moved to see the poppies when visiting London that had wanted to do something to help and had been delighted to be chosen to aid in the removal of the installation that has gripped the nation and Mrs Childs, aged 55 was just as eager to help.

The poppies were planted to commemorate World War One and have been a focal point for many visitors to the capital over the last three months.

The friends, from Smithills waded through the muddy ground carefully removing the poppies which are now to be sent to buyers from all over Britain — each hand made poppy has been sold for £25 with the proceeds benefitting a range of service charities.

"It was a memorable occasion and we felt privileged to take part. We met people from as far away as Ireland. It was back breaking work and muddy but then the soldiers who gave their lives had it even harder.

"I found that my great uncle Albert Thornley, from the Border Regiment, had been killed in 1917 after serving for three years. So I felt a connection.

"We both feel honoured to have had a small part in this once in a life time celebration to honour World War One," said Mrs Myerscough.