ONCE again the people of Frome have helped raised a tremendous amount for the Poppy Appeal with the total expected to reach last year’s record-breaking figure.
Poppy Appeal organiser Maggy Daniell said, “Last year, on the centenary of the start of World War I, the final amount raised in Frome and the surrounding villages was £30,497. Without the high level of publicity, I didn’t really expect that we would reach the same figure this year, but it looks as though it will be very close.
“This is due to the very praise-worthy efforts of a dedicated team that I cannot thank enough, and the generosity of the public even in hard times. It also helps that more people are Gift Aiding their donation, which adds a nice bonus amount.
“In Frome we have a small management team and an exceptional number of community volunteers, plus the support of Royal British Legion members. While I am grateful to them all, there is one person I would especially like to give credit, and that is Victoria Turner, who co-ordinates the volunteers and is very hands-on throughout the appeal. Having moved out of Frome in the summer, I relied on her more than ever this year.
“There was one concern this year – some Facebook comments which were based on a false assumption. We are very well looked after in all three stores where we collect, and we are grateful to Lidl for its hosting facility as well as Asda and Sainsbury, which both allow us into the store to collect, if we want to do that (and where staff kindly keep us topped up with coffee). Most collectors prefer to be positioned at the exit because it is a better vantage point; and only go inside if the weather is bad. This year we were lucky to have had mild weather. It was nice of someone to be concerned, but no-one was left out in the cold, from choice or otherwise.
“So congratulations and thank you. All the funds raised go towards health and welfare support for our ex-service people and their families – one way we show our appreciation for the way they helped keep us safe.
“If you would like to join our team, either as a collector next year or for a more administrative role, you would be very welcome. It is a short-term commitment and these are lovely people to have as colleagues. You can get in touch on 07854 818286.”
