‘We Will Remember Them’ – Poppy Appeal 2014 is launched in Westbury

Bill Prior next to the Edward Street memorial

THE Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal will soon be under way, and the Westbury Legion branch is hoping to match the success of previous years and add to their fundraising triumphs earlier in the year.

Appeal organiser Bill Prior said, “We’ll be putting out the collection boxes from the Friday 24th October until Remembrance Sunday on the 9th.

“They’ll be going into as many shops, clubs, and pubs as I can get them to, and we’ll hand out the wreaths on 1st November.

“We raised over £7,000 from last year’s appeal, and are hoping it will be as successful again this year.”

The Poppy Appeal is one of the Royal British Legion’s main fundraising events, and takes place every year in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday. And Westbury’s branch of the Royal British Legion hope the Poppy Appeal will add to their fundraising success over the summer.

President Eddie Bridges said, “We’d like to extend a huge thank you to everybody from Westbury and the surrounding area who helped with our recent fundraising.

“Our tombola stall at July’s street fair, and the summer raffle at the 1914 commemoration were a success, and raised over £1,250; thanks to all those who took part.”

The Royal British Legion in Westbury is also on the lookout for new members, whether they be ex-servicemen, military families, or just locals willing to get involved. The Legion meet at Westbury Conservative Club on the first Monday of the month. Find out more from Eddie on 01373 823316.

Remembrance Sunday will this year be held on Sunday 9th November, which will see people across the Commonwealth hold services to remember soliders who have died or been injured in the line of duty.