Poppy Appeal breaks more records

It’s the third year in a row the Poppy Appeal has beaten the previous year’s total.

Roberta McNally commented: “I can confirm that the total raised over the past year for the Poppy Appeal was £33,395. That’s the third year in a row we’ve set a new record.

“I’ve been leading the appeal for three years, but this isn’t down to just me. It’s a team effort.

“This comes down to the hard work of every single person on the team as well as the individuals and businesses who continue to support us.

“It would be impossible to thank them all and it’s a credit that they’ve continued to support us through these tough economic times. It shows the high esteem in which our servicemen and ex-servicemen are held.”

This year’s Poppy Appeal will be launched with a service in St John’s this Sunday at 6.30pm.

Roberta said: “The aim is to raise £34,000. It’s going to be tough, especially since some of the businesses who support us have now closed, but we’ll give it a good go.”

Meanwhile the Royal British Legion along with the Mayor of Craigavon are trying to establish a support group for families and friends of soldiers who are currently serving or are about to go into active duty.

Roberta said: “There are a lot of local families who would benefit. We would hope to provide a relaxed atmosphere where families can meet to share their stories and support each other.”

Roberta said the group are interested to hear from ex-soldiers or families of servicemen who have experienced what it’s like to have a loved one overseas on duty.

Anyone interested in joining the group or providing assistance should call into the Legion and ask for Roberta.