MORE than 140,000 people have visited Carlisle Castle and seen the iconic sculpture Poppies: Weeping Window.

The ceramic flowers cascading from the top of the keep has been on display for 47 days as part of 14-18 NOW’s UK-wide tour of the poppies.

Carlisle Castle was chosen by English Heritage to host the sculpture as a location because of its military connections and architecture.

Artist Paul Cummins and designer Tom Piper launched the sculpture to the public on May 23. The opening ceremony was attended by Sir Tim Laurence, chairman of English Heritage, Kate Mavor, chief executive, and Nigel Hinds, Executive Producer of 14-18 NOW.

Andrea Selley, North Territory Director, English Heritage said: “This has been a momentous time for Carlisle Castle and the city of Carlisle itself.

"These visitor numbers reinforce just how much the First World War has impacted the lives of us all today, and we are privileged to have played a small part in keeping alive the legacy of the sacrifice made by these men.

"It has also reminded our visitors too of the role Carlisle Castle has played in the city over the last nine centuries. We hope that many of these visitors are inspired to re-visit the castle in the future and enjoy all that we have to offer here and in the fabulous region of Cumbria.”

Weeping Window will be seen next at Middleport Pottery in Stoke on Trent from August 2. At the end of the tour Wave and Weeping Window will become part of the Imperial War Museum collection.