Veterans launch 24-hour vigil in aid of the Poppy Appeal

Sea ham Veterans have launched a unique fundraising effort to support this year's Poppy Appeal.

'Stag on in Remembrance' will observe a 24-hour vigil from 11am on Saturday, November 7, to 11am on Remembrance Sunday at the Terrace Green, Seaham Seafront.

Being 'On Stag' is British Army slang for sentry duty. Come rain or shine, in onehour stints, veterans will take it in turn to be on watch to commemorate and honour their fallen comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Organiser David McKenna came up with the idea to continue Seaham's tradition of unique Remembrance activities while meeting social distancing requirements.

He said: “The lead -up to Remembrance Sunday 2020 will be very different. The restriction in sales of poppies from businesses and shops could severely impact fund-raising, affecting the support the Royal British Legion can offer to veterans and their loved ones in the years ahead.

“The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal is iconic. They stand with veterans and as veterans, we will stand by them in this time of need. I hope the community will get behind this year's Poppy Appeal and support Stag on in Remembrance .”

Visit www.gofundme.com/f/stag-on-in-rem embrance to support the fundraiser.

Those backing the initiative include Easington MP Grahame Morris, who said: “Seaham Veterans delivered

Operation Flanders during the peak of the COVID-19 crisis to get hot meals and food to the vulnerable and elderly in our community.

“Now with the second wave of the coronavirus, they will stand in remembrance to raise vital funds for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.