An exclusive author Q&A and a special talk on Rudyard Kipling are among the highlights of The Poppy Factory's autumn programme in Richmond.

Kirsty Dougal, author of the forthcoming novel The Poppy Girls, will appear at the charity's visitor centre on Monday 10 November at 3pm to discuss her new book and answer questions from readers.

Set to be published by Penguin on 23 October, the novel tells the story of three teenagers who come of age during the Second World War while living on The Poppy Factory estate, where their veteran fathers work making Remembrance wreaths.

Later in the month, on Wednesday 26 November at 7pm, Museum of Richmond Curator Gary Enstone will give a talk on Nobel Prize-winning writer Rudyard Kipling.

Gary is a noted Kipling expert, having managed the author's former Sussex home, Bateman's, for the National Trust.

Alongside these headline events, discovery sessions run every Monday at 12.30pm throughout October and November.

Visitors can hear talks from expert hosts and even try their hand at making poppies and wreaths with the support of volunteers.

The cover of The Poppy Girls and the poster for the Rudyard Kipling talk (credit: The Poppy Factory).

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All ticketed events also include entry to The Poppy Factory's visitor centre, which tells the story of the unique veteran community that has been part of Richmond for almost 100 years.

Funds raised will go directly to the charity's Veteran and Family Services, which support around 1,200 people nationwide each year.

Amanda Shepard, Chief Executive of The Poppy Factory, said: "I am tremendously excited for our autumn programme, promising fascinating insights into authors old and new.

"This is perhaps the most meaningful time of the year to visit our historic home in Richmond upon Thames and by doing so you will directly support veterans and family members across the UK to make progress on the path to employment."

To see the full programme and book tickets click here.

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