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ORGANISERS DELIGHTED WITH POPPY APPEAL GENEROSITY

This year's Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal highlights how, when a military veteran's life falls apart, the Legion can help to rebuild it.

For some in the Armed Forces community, issues from service can affect them later on, and a veteran's life can fall apart for many reasons the lasting impact of a training accident, the loss of a friend or battlefield trauma, and so on. Service-related issues, such as complex mental health conditions, can lead to a rapid downward spiral which needs help. And when something goes wrong, the Royal British Legion is there.

The Poppy Appeal donation raises vital funds for the Legion to support the Armed Forces community for life. And wearing a poppy signals recognition, shows gratitude, is a heart-warming gesture and has an important impact for the Armed Forces. It also connects the nation during the November Remembrance period.

LEGION NEEDS HELP IN CLAYGATE

The Claygate Parish Appeal in 2024 raised £5,795, which was the highest sum donated since the current organiser undertook the task in 2006. The national donations totalled £51m.

But the Poppy Appeal Organisation in Claygate is short of volunteers: there are currently only two in the parish, which makes the Appeal vulnerable.

Anyone wishing to volunteer as an assistant to the Poppy Appeal Organiser should contact either Hugh Stephenson, the Poppy Appeal Organiser for Claygate ση 01372 464217 or 07950 029130, or email Hughstephenson7@outlook.com, or Peter Wakeham, Poppy Appeal Organiser for East Surrey on 01273 411058 or 07826 908603. The most urgent need is for a volunteer to help with the forthcoming Remembrance period, from October 27 to November 10.

COMMUNITY LITTER PICK

Families and individuals are invited to come along and help keep Claygate looking green and clean on Saturday October 18, the next Claygate Clean-Up day. Everyone should meet in the Hare Lane Car Park (near Champions) at 10am. All equipment will be provided. After all the hard work, every volunteer will be offered free hot dogs and burgers from the Claygate Parish Council barbecue. It's a fun way to care for Claygate, spend time outdoors, and meet new people.