Letter: Support the Poppy Appeal

This year marks the commemorations of 100 years since the Battle of the Somme. During July I attended some very moving services and fitting tributes. I would like especially to honour those who have lost their lives in all conflicts and their loved ones. The Poppy Appeal is a special way to help us remember and raise some vital funds.

Last year, the Poppy Appeal again received wonderful support from the public. Through the generosity of everyone contributing to the annual collection, as well as to those many thousands who stepped forward to volunteer their time, the Poppy Appeal raised a magnificent total of just over £44 million.

Since 1921, The Royal British Legion’s mission has been to help those members of the serving and ex-service community who needed it. Over ninety years on and the Legion continues to safeguard the welfare, interests, and memory of those who are serving or who have served in the armed forces. Last year over £1.3 million a week was spent on a variety of services. My special thanks must go to the British Legion for their loyal and dedicated work.

The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal is again undertaking a ‘Poppy People’ campaign to attract new Poppy Appeal volunteers. Anyone over 16 years of age can help by emailing [email protected]. The help that people in Calderdale can provide will be a major contribution to the success of this year’s Poppy Appeal. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them in advance for their continued support, which will be greatly appreciated.

Our people have a high regard for members of the armed forces and what they have been called on to do for our citizens, borough and communities.

We all owe a debt of gratitude to those who in wars and conflicts have helped to win the freedom we now enjoy. By making donations through the Poppy Appeal we can go some way towards repaying that debt.

Please be generous and support The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.

Coun Howard Blagbrough, Mayor of Calderdale