Pop-up poppy shop returns to town in aid of Jersey's veterans

Friday, 25 October 2024 10:00

Islanders can express their support for ex-military personnel by donating to the annual Poppy Appeal in the run-up to Remembrance Day.

Jersey's branch of the Royal British Legion is raising funds to support the 4,000 - 5,000 veterans living in the island and their families.

By buying poppies, pins, and other merchandise, or simply donating, the charity can afford to support former soldiers financially, mentally or physically.

The pop-up poppy shop this year is next to Coffee Republic on King Street.

Special island poppy pins for the 80th D-Day Anniversary are also available this year.

Those seeking help must have spent at least one day under the service of King Charles III or the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Poppy Appeal Co-ordinator Alison Opfermann says they have given to us, so it is our time to give to them.

"If things go a bit wrong in life, maybe ill health, maybe poor mental health or other issues, they can come to the Royal British Legion and ask for support.

"It can be financial if that's an immediate requirement, it can also be seeking out appropriate treatment, medical or I said for mental health.

"There are lots of different things and we do have a welfare team who are very good at sign posting people to the right source for some support if its something that we can't directly offer through the Legion."

Jersey's Field of Remembrance opens today (25 October) at the Cenotaph in St Helier, with a service at 1.15pm attended by the Lieutenant Governor, Bailiff and Chief Minister.

Relatives can place a wooden cross in memory of loved ones lost in conflict.

Fort Regent will be lit in red at night until Remembrance Sunday.