Royal British Legion asks people in Leeds to sign up to virtual fundraiser My Poppy Run

The legion’s Poppy Run events, which usually take place in ten cities, including Leeds, are unable to go ahead in their usual format due to social distancing measures. Instead, people can help support service and ex-service personnel and their families by signing up for the ‘virtual’ version. Participants can choose to run, jog or walk a distance of their choice in a location of their choice, from the treadmill to their local park.

Sharon Wells, events partnerships manager, said: “My Poppy Run is a fantastic way for people to show their support for The Royal British Legion and have some fun with family and friends at the same time. Members of the Armed Forces community need the Legion’s help now more than ever, and we are working tirelessly to ensure that those who have served are being looked after, no matter what challenges the country faces.”

Ex-soldier Lawrence Philips took out a small loan to help his family get through Christmas, but with Lawrence unable to work due to Covid-19, the debt quickly spiralled out of control. However, with the help of the legion’s Benefits, Debt and Money Advice team (BDMA), Lawrence was able to clear his debts.

He said: “The legion saved my life. They have helped me sort out both my mental health and my financial health. I’m debt-free and looking forward to starting a new career, I cannot thank them enough.”

My Poppy Run can be completed any time before November 30 and is free to enter. For more, visit:

https://bit.ly/3iKPeKi, call 0333 011 4500 or email [email protected].