TODAY we are launching a drive to recruit more volunteers for the Royal British Legion in this part of Wales to help with the annual Poppy Appeal.
Last year volunteers in Gwent raised an incredible £300,000.
But as Lynne Woodyatt, the Royal British Legion’s community fundraiser for South East and Mid Wales, said: “ Unfortunately over the last few years our volunteer numbers have dropped due to age, and ill health and many are no longer as mobile as they once were, so we are looking to recruit volunteers to assist our existing volunteers, with the collections and distribution of boxes.
"We have around 26 volunteer Poppy Appeal Organisers in Gwent who organise teams of volunteers to cover their area and supermarkets. Lots of our volunteers have supported us for many years and many are veterans themselves.
“We also we need volunteers to take on the role of Poppy Appeal organisers in areas such as Cwm so that the Poppy Appeal will continue in the smaller towns and villages throughout the valleys.”
Working closely with the Royal British Legion we will bring you the stories of those who are already involved, many of them over many years, we will also let you know where the money goes and how vital it is that every year the Poppy Appeal is a success.
Every year across the country 350,000 volunteers are needed to help run what is the main fundraising event of the year for the nation''s biggest Armed Forces charity providing care and support to all members of the British Armed forces past and present and their families.
People of all ages and from all backgrounds can volunteer.
Nicola Tallett, the Legion's Interim Director of Fundraising, said: "The Poppy Appeal is The Royal British Legion’s main fundraising event of the year. The Appeal simply wouldn’t be possible without the tremendous support we receive each year from our valued volunteers.
“I know they are very much the lifeblood of the Poppy Appeal and contribute enormously to the charity year-round through a variety of roles. We’d love all who want to volunteer with us to get in contact.”
If you think you could get involved contact Lynne Woodyatt on 07827 230619 or email Lwoodyatt@britishlegion.org.uk
Alternatively, call Mike Jones on 07875089933.
For further information on the work of The Royal British Legion visit www.britishlegion.org.uk
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