Ceremony marks launch of poppy appeal

A PARTICULARLY poignant Poppy Appeal has been launched in Wales – this year marking the centenary of the end of the First World War.

The Royal British Legion yesterday kicked off the annual fundraising bid with a moving ceremony at Cardiff Castle.

The fundraising target in Cardiff is £230,000.

That figure which will go towards the Legion’s biggest ever national target of £50m to continue its work offering help and support to members of the armed forces and their families.

The Royal British Legion’s director of fundraising Claire Rowcliff said: “During the Poppy Appeal 2018 we are calling on the nation to say ‘thank you’ to the First World War generation, not just the British armed forces, but those who fought alongside them from today’s Commonwealth and the countless men, women and children who played their part of the home front.

“The work of the Legion is as relevant and vital today as it was in the aftermath of the First World War when the charity was founded.

“The donation for your poppy will help the Legion support today’s armed forces community through hardships, injury and bereavements.

“Generations of the armed forces have continued to serve and sacrifice since the First World War, and we recognise and thank them all for their contribution.”