Chichester Poppy Appeal is launched

Chichester marked the launch of this year's Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal at the Council Offices in North Street with a small ceremony on Saturday morning.
Chichester mayor Martyn Bell with Chichester Poppy Appeal organiser Paul Gaffney. Picture contributedChichester mayor Martyn Bell with Chichester Poppy Appeal organiser Paul Gaffney. Picture contributed
Chichester mayor Martyn Bell with Chichester Poppy Appeal organiser Paul Gaffney. Picture contributed

Paul Gaffney, Chichester poppy appeal organiser, presented a poppy to Mayor Martyn Bell at 11am.

Speaking before the ceremony, Mr Bell said it was a 'great privilege' to be supporting the poppy appeal.

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He added: "It is such a pleasure to be doing it, particularly this year as it is marks 100 years since the end of the First World War.

"It comes after the marvellous drum head ceremony at Priory Park and it is building up to November 11.

"It is very very important. It is being run by a very dedicated team who have done a wonderful job."

The poppy appeal runs until Saturday November 10.

Mr Gaffney said volunteers are always welcome as he seeks to man the stall 'Under the Arches' at The Council Offices in North Street, which is open everyday from 10:30 to 14:30, and at many of the supermarkets around the city.

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He added: "2018 is a symbolic year as it marks 100 year since 'the guns fell silent'.

"We are always looking for volunteers at supermarkets or street collections and on Saturday itself. All people need is proof of ID."

Mr Gaffney said 200 boxes will be distributed to clubs, offices and schools around the city, and they are still accepting the old one pound coin.

He added that people can buy this year's metal pins, bracelets and reflectors until Saturday November 10.