The British Legion Poppy Appeal was launched last week and, like everything else, it has had to adapt to the Covid crisis. There’ll be fewer volunteers doing face to face collections and whilst supermarkets and other outlets may still take part, most donations will probably be made online. Wearing a poppy is an act of remembrance, remembering the service and sacrifice of those who fought in two world wars but also other conflicts our country has been involved in.

The British Legion does a great job providing help to service men and women including financial and health advice as well as supporting veterans in homes across the country. The effects of the pandemic mean that the Legion’s work has probably never been more important.

For MP’s and parliamentarians, the Legion is a trusted source and if the Legion has a view about flawed legislation like the Overseas Operations Bill or the plan to scrap the Royal Marines, Ministers would be wise to listen.

For many people, the time they see the Legion’s work is around Remembrance Sunday, again an unfortunate but necessary casualty of the pandemic. If public health advice says we cannot safely meet together at services and parades, then we can still show our support across our community. Displaying a poppy in your window or standing at your doorstep at 11am will confirm that we stand together. It may also be that some individuals will still quietly and safely lay their tributes at memorials over that weekend.

Please support this year’s Poppy Appeal by donating at www.britishlegion.org.uk