SOUTHEND’S oldest veteran was among more than 90,000 people to visit the poppy sculpture in Shoebury which commemorates those who lost their lives in the First World War.

Alfred Smith, 98, a member of the Armed Forces charity, the SSAFA, made a touching visit to see the sculpture for himself.

He was rescued from Dunkirk, and returned to Normandy for D Day during the Second World War.

However, time is now running out for anyone who hasn’t seen Poppies: Wave at Barge Pier, Gunners Park.

After ten weeks, the sculpture by artist Paul Cummins and designer Tom Piper will move on to the next stop on its 14-18 NOW’s nationwide tour.

Southend Council will be marking the final day on Sunday with a series of free events to welcome families and friends visiting the sculpture one last time before it moves on to the Plymouth Naval Memorial.

The day will begin at 11am with a walk through the Garrison hosted by local photographer Peter Bolton.

This will be followed by hourly performances between 3pm and 5pm by Jubilant Productions who will be performing Merry It Was To Laugh Here - a selection of poems and poetry readings from the trenches.

From 7pm until 7.40pm, local musician Roger Humphrey and members of Southend Choral Society, Southend Boys’ and Girls’ Choirs and Rayleigh Brass will be performing Never Forget, composed by Roger Humphrey to commemorate the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

Ann Holland, councillor responsible for culture, tourism and the economy, said: “We have welcomed visitors from all over the country, making them feel at home in our wonderful town.”