AS this year’s Poppy Appeal is launched, people are asked to be as generous as ever – whether it be buying a poppy or volunteering to help with collections.
Last year, over £21,800 was raised in Frome and Nunney, and organisers hope the appeal can raise an impressive amount again this year.
Taking place in the fortnight before Remembrance Sunday, the Poppy Appeal is a key way the Royal British Legion raises money to support members of the Armed Forces community, and veterans of all ages and their families.
Maggy Daniell, Poppy Appeal organiser for Frome and Nunney said, “Remembrance Sunday is when we will think about the sacrifice made by all those who lost their lives or whose lives were changed forever. The Poppy Appeal gives you a chance to show that you value what they have done on our behalf, by wearing a poppy and by donating towards the welfare work done by the Royal British Legion for service veterans, both old and young.
“We know life is hard for lots of people just now, but it is even harder for them, so please give generously and/or help with your time.
“In Somerset last year we raised around £911,000 and about £750,000 of it went on help to veterans and their families in Somerset. Some goes to older folk who need respite or equipment, some goes to higher profile needs like the Battle Back Centre at Lilleshall, where injured service people are brought back to psychological and physical health – either to return to their jobs or to move into civvie street. There is also an advice and signposting service for those who come out of the services, and the Legion liaises with other charities to coordinate care.
“That’s some of the uses to which the funds raised are put. The poppy also has great symbolic value, and most of us know someone who is or was a veteran and as a nation we need to remember them all.”
If you can help with the Poppy Appeal collections, please contact Maggy on 07854 818 286. Maggy says, “It isn’t a big commitment – just two hours of your time would help enormously.”
Remembrance Sunday will be marked on the 10th November. The parade will leave at Keyford Drill Hall at 10.40am, and will arrive at the war memorial for a service starting at 10.58am.