POPPY APPEAL NEEDS EVERY QUID

FOR 99 of the past 100 years an army of dedicated volunteers has taken to the streets of Britain to sell us small but powerful symbols of sacrifice and remembrance.

The Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal has become a part of the national fabric, heralding November’s solemn commemorations of all those who

died defending our freedom. But wearing a poppy isn’t just about remembering past conflicts and generations. It’s about helping people who are struggling NOW – having sacrificed so much to protect US.

Last year the battle against coronavirus kept 40,000 volunteers at home and, as a result, the RBL lost out on £20million worth of donations. That’s a third of the amount they spend each year helping more than 100,000 ex-forces personnel with injury, mental health issues and financial hardship.

I have been privileged to meet many RBL staff and volunteers and the veterans and families they help.

And I know that every single pound raised will make a real difference.

This year is the centenary of the Royal British Legion and its army of volunteers will be back on the streets.

So please, give what you can. Because every poppy counts.