This year’s Poppy Appeal was marked on Saturday with an event in Whitley Bay.

Local people have been at the heart of the Poppy Appeal in local communities for over 100 years, last year, for the first time in the history of the Poppy Appeal, they were unable to carry out face-to-face collections in England and Wales due to COVID restrictions.

But I am delighted to say that this year, as we celebrate the Centenary of the Royal British Legion, collectors will be back out in communities raising vital funds for the 2021 Poppy Appeal.

The impact of the cancelled collections last year has had a huge impact on the charity, which, despite overwhelming support from the public, resulted in a shortfall in income of over £20m.  It’s therefore vital that we make this year’s Appeal a success. Please join in making every poppy count.

As well as wearing your Poppy with pride, the Royal British Legion have a range of different activities for you to get involved with to show your support this year. Find out more here.

North Tyneside will once again commemorate those who lost their lives in war with a series of Remembrance events across the borough.

The council is holding services on Thursday 11 November and on Remembrance Day, Sunday 14 November.