McCrea urges support for Poppy Appeal

MID-ULSTER DUP Assembly MLA, Ian McCrea has encouraged people across Northern Ireland to give their full support to the annual Poppy Appeal and to wear a poppy with pride.

“The annual Poppy Appeal to help serving and ex-service people is now underway and this year they aim to raise £42 million,” said the Mid-Ulster MLA.

“This target is not unachievable given that each year the people of the United Kingdom and especially here in Northern Ireland give generously to this worthwhile appeal.”

“The Poppy Appeal funding helps those who have served and are serving their country. This year we think especially of those who are still serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Mr McCrea also paid tribute to the “brave” men and women currently serving in the armed forces,

“We should never forget the sacrifice made in wars and conflicts of previous generations,” he said.

“I pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Armed Forces especially those members of the RUC/RUCR, PSNI, UDR and the RIR, who put themselves on the front line: many of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“We will never forget their courage. We must also remember their families and those who suffered serious injury while protecting the people of Northern Ireland from the scourge of terrorism.”

Mr McCrea concluded: “A poppy is not just a flower; it is a symbol of remembrance of our fallen heroes of all religions and of who gave their all for our freedom. I want to encourage everyone from all traditions to support this worthy cause and to wear your poppy with pride.”