Rugby mayor urges residents to wear their poppies with pride ahead of appeal launch

The Royal British Legion launches its Poppy Appeal on October 24.

Cllr Ward said: “This is a major source of funding for its vital work supporting the armed forces community.

"Remembrance is part of modern British life, culture and heritage.

"It becomes a particular feature of the public calendar each year when public, private, formal and informal remembrance events take place throughout the UK.”

Rugby Borough Council will be co-ordinating arrangements for the Remembrance Service at the Memorial Gates, Hillmorton Road, Rugby, which this year falls on Sunday, November 10.

“The Royal British Legion was founded over 100 years ago and, whilst Remembrance Day is 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 and those still fighting for the freedom we enjoy today,” added Cllr Ward.

"This year marks a number of 80th anniversaries, including the anniversary of D-Day on 6 June when allied forces mounted the daring operation, storming the beaches of Normandy to start the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation.

"I attended a special service at the Hillmorton War Memorial tocommemorate the occasion and how it symbolised the light of hope D-Day brought to bring an end to the Second World War.

“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.

"Donations help to ensure the Royal British Legion can be there to honour the sacrifice of those who have served their country, and those who

are still serving.

"I would, therefore, urge everyone to join with me and wear a poppy with pride.”