Royal British Legion celebrate poppy appeal fundraising

OVER 70 people enjoyed the recent Frome and District Royal British Legion (RBL) Poppy Appeal Party.

The event, held in the Frome Assembly Rooms, allowed the Poppy Appeal team to thank their volunteers and celebrate the success of last year’s Poppy Appeal, that raised £41,659, as well as look forward to this year’s appeal activities.

“Attendees enjoyed an afternoon tea which was kindly sponsored by Frome’s Catley Chilled Foods and also our local Sainsbury’s,” said Frome and District Poppy Appeal organiser (PAO), Richard Aspray. “We are most grateful to them, as well as many other businesses and organisations across Frome, for their continued support for the Poppy Appeal.

“We were delighted to welcome Clare Peppiatt, the regional Poppy Appeal manager for the South West, as well as our own county Poppy Appeal manager and county RBL membership engagement officer. It was fabulous to see them and so many local volunteers enjoying the event.”

RBL Poppy Appeal Awards were presented by Clare to the following: Five Year Awards – Lin Hatherall and Sheila Nicholson; 10 Year Awards – Pip Manners, Sandra Elmer and Ken Manners; 15 Year Awards – Susie Hicks, Jane Norris, Victoria Turner and Dave Turner; 20 Year Award – Shirley Samuels; and 40 Year Award – Barbara Peto.

An additional 12 awards will be presented to individuals who were not able to attend the party.

Each year, the Frome branch of the Royal Naval Association (RNA) presents a cup for Outstanding Service to the Poppy Appeal. “Deciding upon a recipient is always a difficult decision, as there are so many tremendous contributions from individuals and organisations supporting our appeal activity,” explains Richard.

“This year, the cup was presented to the Rotary Club of Frome, following their significant support to our supermarket poppy stands. President Mike Darville accepted the cup on behalf of his club from the president of the Frome Branch of the RNA – Mo Wood.

“All donations in our 2023 Poppy Appeal will help to provide support to serving and ex-serving members of the British Armed Forces, their families and dependants who are experiencing hardship, or dealing with the effects of injuries or bereavements.

“Frome has a fantastic reputation for raising money to support good causes, through help from our local community and with the cooperation of our local businesses.”

This year’s Poppy Appeal starts on 24th October. If anyone would like to be involved in supporting the team, as a volunteer, organisation or business, please contact Richard on 07511 961248.