The 2017 Wilmslow Poppy Appeal was launched on Saturday, 28th October, with the help of members of the Royal British Legion Riders Branch.
About 40 bikers roared into town for the short dedication service which was conducted by Rev. Sandi Fisher of St. Bartholomew's Church.
The service was also attended by Army Cadets, rainbows, standard bearer Eddie Harrison, residents of Wilmslow and Councillor Martin Watkins, Chairman of Wilmslow Town Council.
Two wreaths were laid at the Memorial Garden by the bikers and the Wilmslow branch of the Royal British Legion.
Khumi on behalf of the Wilmslow Branch recited the Kohima Epitaph, which is near to where she comes from and she recently visited the Kohima Cemetery where she laid a wreath on behalf of the RBL.
Khumi said "I hope that - this year being the 100th Year .... we must try and remember the sacrifices made by so many not only from this part of the world from India too where millions came over to fight for the freedom we enjoy today. Personally I would not be living amongst you in Wilmslow and this country."
She added "In recent years there are many more conflicts happening in the world and your generosity during the Poppy Appeal helps these young people and their families who are also veterans.
"The money from the Poppy Appeal helps also some of the 2nd World War veterans in India and overseas. That is why I get involved and am very passionate too!
"Please give generously even more than before."
Comments
Here's what readers have had to say so far. Why not add your thoughts below.
Last year some residents were very cross about the totally unnecessary decoration of lampposts and the expense incurred. This year it has gone into excess. One hopes that the large plastic poppies were made in the UK and Sterling not exported to import them from China.
Why is it that the British Legion who have the best advertising amongst charities, with everybody wearing poppies and even advertising by newscasters, have to over-promote in this expensive way. Two years ago British Legion management was so greedy that it launched a June appeal when there was no historical basis for one and poached on other charities interests. The Royal Albert Hall event is the focus of the money raising and should be retained as such. In the past I have been pleased to support Queen and country through the traditional framework. Now the situation is different if professional money raisers have turned a charity into an in-your-face institution.
Handforth British Legion approached HQ for funds to help repair the fabric of their building. This was refused on the grounds that the building did not belong to the Legion. The Handforth unit closed down as a result.
Last year the Wilmslow branch had a leaking roof and asked for assistance. It was refused, being told to campaign for funds locally.
Yet it probably is the local Legion team who are kindly volunteering to do the money raising around town. I will gladly give but only if there is proof that my gift goes only to local Wilmslow funds.
Modern charities have become an industry and their directors think they can greedily reach a bottomless pot of cash in us. They need to look in the dictionary to notice that the word 'Charity' is thinking about others and giving, not begging.
The Continent does not have the accumulation of charity companies that we have with the addition of charity shop and expensive advertising. At the time of the Grenfall tragedy none were in attendance. Where were the British Red Cross to provide urgent aid? Very strangely they appeared (a week after the event) at Manchester's bomb tragedy, but I'm not sure what on-the-ground assistance they ever gave or even could offer. The band aid concert provided the financial support needed. Victim counsellors come as neighbours and friends not as paid professional people. There were no counsellors after the Blitz yet there were no suicides. This ritual is overblown it seems.
Raymond Walker
I attend the war memorial each year and donate. I choose not to wear the plastic poppy but recognise that people like to wear them and show their support.
I and am growing concerned about the decoration of lamp posts. Surely it’s about remembering not showing off how much you remember by plastering the town like it’s some sort of festival.
The poppy appeal is about supporting veterans and their families not repairing social club facilities. Whatever your views on war or the direction of charity fund raising this is a worthy cause. Please give gerously and take the time to remember.