In the year that marks 100 years since the birth of the poppy as a symbol of Remembrance and hope, The Royal British Legion is encouraging people in Merseyside to support the Poppy Appeal for the memory of the fallen and the future of the living.
This call to action came from the Lord Mayor of Liverpool who launched the Legion’s Poppy Appeal at St Margaret’s CE Primary School in Anfield with the children holding a WW1 tea for serving local soldiers and by releasing homing pigeons after learning about those used to carry messages in the trenches. Members of the Liverpool PALS Memorial Fund attended wearing WW1 battledress whilst the children dressed in WW1 costumes.
The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Erica Kemp said: “As we mark the Centenary of the First World War, it’s as important as ever to wear a poppy and remember the sacrifices and commitment made by our Armed Forces both then and now. The message behind this year’s Poppy Appeal is Live On – to the memory of the fallen and future of the living, which captures perfectly why it’s so important to donate to the appeal and wear a poppy. Every donation received will make a real difference to the lives of Service men and women, veterans and their loved ones”.
Head Teacher Mrs J McCallum said: “It is an honour to be chosen to host the Liverpool Poppy Appeal Launch, especially in this commemorative year of 100 years since the outbreak of World War One”.
The fundraising target in Liverpool and Merseyside is £500,000 which will go towards the Legion’s national target of £40 million to continue its vital work delivering practical, through life care and support to the Armed Forces community.
The Royal British Legion Director of Fundraising Charles Byrne said: “The Poppy Appeal 2014 embraces the dual role of The Royal British Legion as the custodians of Remembrance and provider of welfare support to the Armed Forces community. The poppy is a powerful symbol which is worn to commemorate all those who have fought and died in our Armed Forces and show support for those still serving today and their loved ones.
“We’re encouraging people to dig deep for this year’s Poppy Appeal to help us raise £40 million, so we can continue providing our vital support to individuals whether they’re still serving, transitioning back to civilian life or have left the Services, and importantly their families too.”
