THE Royal British Legion (RBL) is seeking a new Poppy Appeal Organiser (PAO) for this year’s Poppy Appeal in Basingstoke.

The RBL marked its 100th anniversary back in 2021 and welcomed back its fleet of Poppy volunteers after they were taken off the streets in 2020 due to Covid. 

The RBL is now looking for a new PAO, or a group of people, to help organise Poppy activities across the town.

Community fundraiser Sarah Ferris said: “Our annual Poppy Appeal is a national event, and the general public are always very keen to wear their poppies proudly and give generously – this is truly a sight to behold. 

“We really want to thank everyone across the area who got involved and supported the Poppy Appeal in 2022, but we have seen a reduction in the number of our organisers and collectors following the pandemic, but the RBL still has a job to do, and we are optimistic for this year."

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The RBL’s annual appeal is dependent on volunteers to distribute poppies and to raise funds locally, but without a PAO to organise the activity, poppies will be limited in Basingstoke.

With the support of a Community Fundraiser and the training and guidance provided by the Royal British Legion, the RBL are asking for volunteers in Basingstoke to step up this year and ensure the town can mark Remembrance alongside the rest of the country.

Sarah is keen to welcome new volunteers so that your community can continue to show their support to our Armed Forces Community, past and present.

The public is reminded that you don’t need to have a military connection to recognise the sacrifices our Armed Forces have given and continue to give for the rest of the public.

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Sarah said: “Our volunteers are more important than ever. Every year they play a critical role in every corner of the country to meet the huge public demand for our poppies, the nation’s symbol of Remembrance.

"The charity will give you all the information and training you need to be successful in the role. We will also provide support from your local Community Fundraiser and invest in you to gain experience volunteering for a national charity."

Anyone who would like to volunteer this year can contact Sarah Ferris or visit our website: rbl.org.uk/poppyvolunteer