The council are considering extending the display past the planned mid-November duration as a "further mark of respect" after the installation showcasing over 110,000 hand-knitted poppies captured worldwide attention.

Councillors have been "overwhelmed" by the response to the display which lines both sides of the 1.3 mile pier, the brainchild of Southend tourism and culture team member Katie Young, with the Royal British Legion involved from the outset.

Response - The inspiration for the display came from Katie Young (centre) and was developed by the tourism team (Image: Main Media)

Matt Dent, Southend Labour councillor for tourism said: "Our Poppies on the Pier event has rightfully received an overwhelmingly positive response by residents and visitors, creating a powerful and moving tribute to those who served.

"We were initially overwhelmed by the public response to providing the 110,471 poppies and have been blown away by the interest from visitors and the media.

"Due to the international success of this exhibition, and as a further mark of respect, we will be considering whether we extend the installation beyond mid-November.

"This event supports both remembrance and heritage - the Royal British Legion benefits directly through donations, and the pier receives vital investment to secure its heritage as HMS Leigh and its future for generations to come. In that sense, everybody wins."

Support - Veterans have been involved in the project throughout (Image: Main Media)

Commentary has circulated online querying the increased ticket proceeds the display has brought to the pier, Southend Council said the RBL have a dedicated stall that has increased donations with entry fees covering essential maintenance of the 136-year-old pier.

Additional revenues brought by the display have also been used to fund additional seasonal staff and special opening times on Mondays and Tuesdays, with the practice of charging in line with other poppy displays including The Tower of London's Tower Remember 2025.

Royal British Legion Regional Poppy Appeal Manager, Laura Gibbs, said: "We really appreciate the support we have received from Southend Culture and Tourism with their Poppies on the Pier campaign.

"Our fundraisers have been able to run collections at the Pier throughout the Poppy Appeal, which aims to raise over £50 million to fund the RBL's vital work supporting serving personnel, veterans, and their families throughout their lives with whatever the need, whenever it's needed.

"With over 110,000 poppies on display at the Southend Pier, we feel this is an impactful thank you to our Armed Forces past and present."