Local MP Alan Mak has officially launched the 2021 Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal in the Havant Constituency at the Tesco superstore on Solent Road in Havant.
Mr Mak was joined by officers and members of the local Royal British Legion Branch at the store, where they sold the first poppies of this year’s Poppy Appeal campaign.
As Vice President of the Havant Royal British Legion Branch, Mr Mak launches the appeal every year and is a longstanding Legion volunteer himself. He also sells poppies every year at the Meridian Centre in Havant. This year he will also sell poppies on Hayling Island alongside local Legion members.
Alan Mak MP said: "As a longstanding Royal British Legion volunteer I’m delighted to launch this year’s Poppy Appeal alongside local Legion supporters. The Poppy Appeal raises vital funds to support our veterans and their families, and I encourage people to give generously once again. The Royal British Legion Branch does great work locally all year round, and I’m delighted we can all be out selling poppies in-person this year. Our area has strong military connections and we must do all we can to support our veterans."
The Royal British Legion is currently celebrating it's centenary year after being founded in 1921 in the aftermath of the Great War. The charity raises money which is then spent on projects to improve the wellbeing and support on offer for veterans, as well as those currently serving in our Armed Forces.
The Havant Poppy Appeal is being organised for the first time by Havant resident Anne Newcombe who took on the role earlier this year. Mr Mak congratulated Anne on her appointment.
Mr Mak also presented a cheque for £4000 raised by local Havant Royal British Legion Branch members to Mrs Newcombe to start this year’s Poppy Appeal fundraising.
