The Museum of The Queen's Royal Hussars is "proud to announce" a new collaborative exhibition with the Donkey Breed Society (Northern Region), titled Create, Craft and Commemorate.

Running from 3 October to December 2025, the exhibition will explore the "extraordinary roles" animals have played in military history - from transport and logistics to communication and emotional support.

At the heart of the exhibition is The Richmond Purple Poppies - a striking cascade of crocheted poppies created by a dedicated group of makers from Richmond, North Yorkshire.

These handcrafted tributes honour the service and sacrifice of animals in wartime, and have already touched audiences across the country during their 2024 tour, including a recent display at The REME Museum in Lyneham, Wiltshire.

The Richmond Purple poppies on display in our Sir Michael Parker Gallery

Gifted to the Northern Region of the Donkey Breed Society and now loaned to the museum, the poppies bring a poignant visual centre piece to the exhibition, inviting reflection and remembrance.

Sarah Booth from the Donkey Breed Society (Northern Region) said: "We are delighted to be taking The Poppies to Warwick and to share our crafts with visitors to this incredible Museum.

"It is so important that the roles of active duty by animals in war—and the profound impact they had as sources of companionship, comfort and emotional support—are remembered.

"On the 2 October, we will be bringing donkeys to the Museum to support the craft workshops being held for schools on that day!"

The exhibition will also feature interactive craft workshops, designed to engage local schoolchildren in the stories of animals and birds who served in wartime.

Through hands-on activities and storytelling, young visitors will discover how these unsung heroes contributed to battlefield operations, often in roles of great bravery and resilience.

See more online here: Brave Tails : Animals who served

Eyes on Hands on - Our exhibition offers the chance for visitors to come and interact with history!