HALTON’S mayor has encouraged residents to support the annual Poppy Appeal to raise vital funds for the Armed Forces.

The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal has now launched, and it provides help for the welfare, interests and memory of those who have served, or are still serving, in the Armed Forces.

Donations from the campaign provide the main sources of funding to maintain the Legion’s welfare and benefit schemes which support more than 300,000 people every year.

Cllr Val Hill, the mayor of Halton, said: “There are many more members of the ex-service community who need help, and the Legion is developing a new welfare programme to reach out to those people. 

“Therefore, each year, the need for people to support the Poppy Appeal is even greater.”

Poppy Appeal collectors across the UK will be distributing new plastic-free poppies in return for donations.

“I would ask everyone to wear their poppy with pride in 2023 and say thank you for contributing to the appeal,” added the mayor.

The Legion is running its Poppy People campaign that aims to attract new volunteers, as many of those who traditionally give their services are becoming too elderly to continue.

Anyone over 16 is eligible for the campaign, and if you are interested, you can email volunteersupport@britishlegion.org.uk