RUGBEIANS can still wear their poppy with pride this year despite the pandemic – that is the message from the town’s Mayor, and volunteers for the Rugby branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL)
The veterans’ charity has launched this year’s Poppy Appeal by distributing poppy boxes in all major supermarkets and some high street stores.
And the Rugby branch will open a shop in Rugby Central Shopping Centre, next to Claire’s Accessories, on Saturday (October 24).
The shop, which will be open until Saturday November 7, will enable volunteers and customers to socially distance while giving the public a chance to show their support.
Mayor Bill Lewis said: “Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this year will see fewer of the volunteer collectors.
“The Royal British Legion was founded 99 years ago and, while Remembrance is a day for the nation to remember and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the World Wars, it is also about those involved in the many conflicts since 1945 and those still fighting for the freedom we enjoy today.
“Donating to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal and wearing the official symbol of Remembrance is greatly appreciated by those it helps – those currently serving in our Armed Forces, our veterans, their families and dependants.
“I would, therefore, urge everyone to join with me and wear a poppy with pride.”
Tim Fountain, chairman of the Rugby No 1 branch of the Royal British Legion, said the appeal has had to adapt to the threat of Covid-19 like so many other things this year.
He said: “2020 marked some memorable anniversaries, with the 75th anniversaries of VE day and VJ day, and the public shows of supports were tremendous.
“We’re calling on the public to support us like never before, because every poppy counts. While there may not be quite as many poppy boxes as normal, there will be enough for everyone who wants a poppy to get one.”
The RBL provides welfare and support to veterans from the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families.
Visit http://branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/rugby for more information.
