Kitchener’s mantra in plea

Monklands schools, businesses, clubs and organisations are being challenged to raise a fourfigure sum to mark a century since the signing of the Armistice that heralded the end of the First World War.

Leading Armed Forces charity Poppyscotland is hoping the Airdrie and Coatbridge communities can help them collect £1918 – or more.

The organisation has adopted Lord Kitchener’s famous mantra, “Your country needs YOU!”, to launch The 1918 Poppy Pledge fundraising quest.

The campaign is a lasting tribute to those who lost their lives in WWI, but will also allow Poppyscotland to make a step change in the scale of support it is able to provide to the Armed Forces community who rely on the charity’s support today.

Gordon Michie, head of fundraising at Poppyscotland, said: “Poppy scotland is committed to providing life-changing support to the Armed Forces community.

“Most people will be familiar with us through the annual Scottish Poppy Appeal; the money raised from the appeal allows us to provide tailored funding and assistance, and we also fund services in advice, employment, housing, mental health, mobility and respite.

“This year, though, it is Poppyscotland’s turn to say, ‘ Your country needs YOU!’

“Since we launched The Poppy Pledge on Remembrance weekend last year, we’ve had 102 pledgers sign up, which would result in the wonderful sum of at least £195,000 being raised.

“But the target is 250 – or £ 480,000 – which means we need schools, churches, rotary clubs, sports clubs, businesses and community groups in Monklands to get on board and do their bit for our brave troops and their families.”

● For more information, and to sign up, visit www. poppyscotland. org. uk/ poppypledge

Eyes down

Springfield Community Centre will host a prize bingo night next month.

All are welcome along to the Clarkston venue for the chance to scoop the winning numbers on Thursday, March 8. Doors open at 6.45pm and eyes down at 7.30pm sharp.

Pledge Poppy Scotland needs your help