Communities come together to launch Poppy Appeal fundraising
COMMUNITIES are coming together once again to mark the launch of this year’s Poppy Appeal, commemorating servicemen and women in past and present conflicts.
Following on from a successful scheme last year, people in Pennington have been knitting and crocheting poppies for display outside St Mark’s Church in Ramley Road from Friday 1st November.
Instigated by priest-in-charge the Rev. Rachel Noël, this year’s campaign has so far seen almost 2,000 created by parishioners and groups including the local WI group, the bingo ladies at Pennington Sports & Social Club and local care homes.
Notices encouraging residents to get involved have been spread across the village and on social media, with links to the patterns.
The Rev. Noël has been “overwhelmed” by the response, with the latest creations being added to 2,000 poppies contributed last year.
She said: “I’m so proud of the way the whole community has come together, bringing together young and old, to mark the sacrifice made by so many from our village in past conflicts.
“The poppies have inspired so many, and I suspect many of them have been made by people who often feel invisible in our communities. It is exciting to see the impact that can be had when we all work together.”
New Milton’s branch of the Royal British Legion has celebrated the return of local development firm Pennyfarthing Homes as sponsors for its appeal for the second consecutive year.
Each annual Poppy Appeal runs for the entire 12 months, with last year’s in the town having raised over £20,000.
Former marine Goff Beck, vice-chairman of the local RBL branch, told the A&T Pennyfarthing had already made “a very firm donation to kick off the campaign”.
He continued: “I’m very pleased that a local company has supported the New Milton branch of the Royal British Legion to the degree to which they have.
“I’m happy to say we also have the support of the 6 Troop New Milton Cadets. Eight members will be manning poppy trays along the entire length of Station Road.
“I’m looking forward to a good turnout at the war memorial on the recreation ground on Sunday 10th November, when I will again be acting as parade marshal.”