Plea for volunteers and donations as Poppy Appeal launched in Rotherham

Donations are being collected around the borough for the Royal British Legion, which is also appealed for extra collectors to staff its stalls.

The Mayor of Rotherham, Cllr Jenny Andrews (pictured second left), joined forces with veterans to launch the town appeal last Thursday at Rotherham’s indoor market.

Visitors to the market throughout November can see the impressive poppy cascade and wall of remembrance, which tells stories of service and sacrifice by Rotherham’s fallen.

Rotherham’s Military Community Veterans Centre, which supports veterans and their families, is also out to raise awareness of the Keeping Families In Mind project, which arranges counselling and other help for current and ex-service personnel.

Meanwhile, Karen Gardner, the Legion’s community fundraiser for Sheffield and Rotherham, said she was keen to hear from anyone who could help with the appeal.

“We have seen a reduction in the number of our collectors following the pandemic, with many still anxious about returning to their normal way of life, but the RBL still has a job to do and we are optimistic for 2021,” she said.

“Our volunteers are more important than ever. Every year they play a critical role across the region to meet the huge public demand for our poppies, the nation’s symbol of Remembrance.

“Anyone who volunteers will receive lots of support and enjoyment from taking part.”

Email [email protected] to volunteer.