Leeds poppy appeal to launch at The Light

The city's Poppy Appeal is launched today amid a message to remember all veterans of conflict around the world.
World War II veteran Geoffrey Pattinson (right), 92, stands with former RAF medic Ben Poku, 34, as they view a video installation unveiled by the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal in Paternoster Square, London.   Pic: Hannah McKay/PA Wire.World War II veteran Geoffrey Pattinson (right), 92, stands with former RAF medic Ben Poku, 34, as they view a video installation unveiled by the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal in Paternoster Square, London.   Pic: Hannah McKay/PA Wire.
World War II veteran Geoffrey Pattinson (right), 92, stands with former RAF medic Ben Poku, 34, as they view a video installation unveiled by the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal in Paternoster Square, London. Pic: Hannah McKay/PA Wire.

The Leeds branch of the Royal British Legion launches its appeal at The Light between 3pm and 4pm.

Local group chairman David Marshall will welcome those taking part before an introduction by BBC Radio Leeds’ Liz Green.

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A parade of standards will be led by the City of Leeds Pipe Band and an Act of Remembrance will take place including a one-minute silence, followed by a presentation of poppies by the Lord Mayor of Leeds and a rendition of the national anthem.

The Royal British Legion’s annual appeal has this year been preempted by a video installation which is being broadcast in central London. It includes tales of younger veterans, including North Yorkshire’s 34-year-old Royal Air Force medic Anna Pollock, to remind people that it is not just World War veterans who benefit from money raised by the appeal.

Last year, the Leeds appeal raised £419,821 and organisers hope for similar success this year.

Mr Marshall said: “Our Poppy Appeal always has a fantastic response and last year we broke our record with over £400,000.

“We’re looking forward to our launch at The Light on Friday helping to make this year’s campaign even bigger and better.”