Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal launched (From Daily Echo)

Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal launched

7:04am Thursday 25th October 2012 in News

IT WAS a solemn moment that marked the launch of a multi-million pound fundraising appeal – but a reminder of what it was all for.

As crosses were laid at Eastleigh’s war memorial yesterday, hundreds of volunteers across the county were gearing up to hit the streets and collect more than £1m for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.

Veterans and serving Armed Forces personnel will also gather at Middle Wallop today for another ceremony to mark the Hampshire’s launch of the Poppy Appeal.

The region raised £1,391,942 last year – a five per cent increase on 2010 – and the charity is hoping to beat that total this year.

Money collected is used to help injured service men and women and their families.

The appeal will culminate with Remembrance Sunday on November 11, when services will be held across Hampshire to remember those who have died while serving in the Armed Forces.