Town’s record-breaking Poppy Appeal

THE people of Dumfries have been officially thanked for their extraordinary generosity after raising a record-breaking sum for the annual Poppy Appeal. Last year, the Dumfries and Maxwelltown Branch raised nearly £27,500 - the fourth largest amount of money raised by a British Legion branch in Scotland and approximately £4000 more than raised the previous year. The money raised during the Poppy Appeal – now in its 105th year – provides support and assistance to the armed forces community in Scotland – those who fought, or are currently in service, and their families. And this week the branch celebrated the achievement with a thank you service to the people of Dumfries at the Loreburne Centre. Richard Reade, Dumfries area organiser for Poppy Scotland, said: “The Poppy Scotland team want to thank the people of Dumfries for all the support they gave to the Poppy Appeal last year. “The total raised for the year amounted to £27,489.69 this is a magnificent total far exceeding any previous collection we have held. “During the appeal we make it a point of honour to thank everyone who buys a poppy in support of this, the largest charity in the country. “However, it was felt that this was not sufficient after discovering how much had been raised last year and something extra was needed. So we are publicly thanking you all for your generous support.” Mr Reade stated the actual graft is done by a dedicated team, some of whom were at the ceremony. He added: “I am indebted to this small group of individuals who stay in the background and yet do so much to help make the appeal the success that it was last year. A sincere thanks to them, without them there would be no collection.” Noting it was almost impossible to thank everyone, he flagged three organisations that have been “invaluable” in giving support: the Loreburne Centre, Morrisons and Tesco.

Meanwhile, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Lady Ann Jack was in attendance at the event and said: “As a mother of a son who is currently serving in the Scots Guards, this means so very much. “The Royal British Legion brings society together to recognise, remember and support the armed forces community. “Every poppy worn honours the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces, both past and present. “Thank you very much to everyone who volunteered and donated.”