The Nuneaton & Stockingford Branch of the Royal British Legion launched its Poppy Appeal, on Saturday 29th October. It was an occasion for both Old Soldiers, younger members of the town’s cadet forces and other youth organisations to stand shoulder to shoulder in an effort to heighten awareness of the appeal and help it off to a flying start.
A Piper led the colourful parade of Standard bearers, ex-servicemen and women, the Mayor of Nuneaton & Bedworth, councillor Neil Phillips, Marcus Jones PM and representatives from 30 Signal Regiment as they marched from the Town Hall into the Market Place for the ceremony to launch the appeal.
During the ceremony, the standard bearers from the Royal British Legion, ex-service organisations and cadet forces dipped their standards in salute for a minutes silence in between the Last Post and Reveille.
The Nuneaton & Stockingford Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal organiser, Archie Smith said, “This year’s collection is a special one, being the 90th anniversary. Last year the generosity of Nuneaton’s citizens saw a record collection. We hope to equal if not beat last years record this time”. He added, “Conflicts end but the caring doesn’t, I would ask everyone to donate whatever they can afford, no donation is too small”.
Following the ceremony cadets from 121 Squadron joined other Poppy Appeal collectors as the general public began making donations whilst shoppers and passers by were entertained by 1940's Singer, Madeline Brown and the Air Cadet band.
Don Jacques, chairman of the Nuneaton & Stockingford branch said, “We are always looking for volunteers to help with the Poppy Appeal and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the young cadets for their vital support.”
Flt Lt Ian Crewe Officer Commanding 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron said, “The cadets always welcome the opportunity to help the RBL with the Poppy Appeal. It is important that the younger generation understand the real meaning of the poppy collection and why Remembrance Day is so significant”.
He added, “Cadets from all three services will be out collecting in the town again next Saturday 5th November and again on the 12th November doing their bit to support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Hopefully the people of Nuneaton will be able to give generously and do their bit to help the Royal British Legion, to safeguard the welfare, interests and memory of those who have and are still serving in the Armed Forces”.
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