A symbol of remembrance that that was born out of last year's lockdown is to be expanded this time around.

The appearance of stencilled poppies as a way of marking Remembrance Sunday came about 12 months ago with parades cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The temporary designs appeared at war memorials in Coalville, Whitwick and Ashby.

Poppy stencil is an alternative way to pay respect on Remembrance Sunday.

But North West Leicestershire District councillor Stuart Gillard has maintained the idea this year and says it has been extended across the region.

He said: "This year the idea has gone a lot further, and a lot of other areas have had them.

"But this time, instead of just painting them, we wanted to see if parish councils wanted to contribute towards.

"How it works is that we pay for the stencils, paints and clean up crews.

"And whatever money is left will go to the Royal British Legion.

"They're in full support of it as it raises awareness and they look impressive."

But Cllr Gillard says Whitwick Parish Council has not come on board with the idea and that, as a result, he has handled the funding of the stencilling for that area after managing to gain sponsorship from local businesses.

Stealth Gym and Totally Balanced accountants in Whitwick have financed the project in that area along with sponsorship from Stuart, Tony and Louise Gillard.

Cllr Gillard added: "We got a lot of interest from the story on the stencilled poppies from last year.

"But it came a bit too late and we were able to expand it this year.

"Gradually, this will get bigger and bigger, and we can raise a lot of money for a very good cause which political divisions can be put to one side."

If local business would like to get involved next year contact, [email protected].