Timely reminder of the Poppy for local Scouts

Last Tuesday evening, members of Ballymoney Scout Group participated in a question and answer session with Lyn Palmer, Community Fundraiser for the Royal British Legion, about the importance and significance of the Poppy as a symbol of hope and a reminder to everyone of those whose lives were affected by war down the years.

Using illustrations, Ms. Palmer gave the children a brief resume of the poppy and of how its worldwide recognition came about. She asked why it was worn at this time and pointed out that more than 40 million poppies were made each year as well as five million petals and around 100,000 leaves.

She also provided children with some images of the First World War.

The children displayed excellent knowledge by correctly answering some questions put by Ms. Palmer and some were also given the opportunity to make a poppy with self-imposed degrees of disability including using one hand and being blindfolded.

The aim was to illustrate how others had to cope with the aftermath of wars, but still carry on with their lives.

However, the main aim of the evening was to present a cheque to the RBL for £221.15p. which was raised by the young Scouts as part of a Friendship Challenge.

Youngsters carried out good deeds in their homes and were rewarded with cash which was earmarked for the RBL.