Poppy Appeal Collectors Recognised Across the Clun Valley

With the launch of the 2025 National Poppy Appeal just weeks away, a special afternoon was held recently to honour the collectors who support the annual Clun Valley’s Poppy Appeal. Organised by the Royal British Legion Clun Branch, the Awards Ceremony brought long-standing volunteers together with their friends and families and members of the local community,  to celebrate their hard work and dedication.

In a rural area without central collection points, raising funds is no small task. Almost every poppy sold in the valley comes from door-to-door visits, often in cold and wet weather, with collectors covering every village, hamlet and outlying home where possible.   Last year alone, the Clun Valley team raised an impressive £7,364.73, contributing to a remarkable total of over £100,000 since 2003.

With lengths of service ranging from five to an incredible thirty-five years, each collector present was warmly recognised for their steadfast commitment to this vital cause. Their efforts help ensure that the sacrifices of the past are honoured, and that today’s veterans and their families continue to receive the support they deserve.

Clun High Town Hall was beautifully decorated for the occasion with red, white and blue bunting and a special poppy-themed wall hanging. With Mike Painter acting as Standard Bearer,  Bob Jameson, President of the RBL Clun Branch and Deputy Lieutenant Mrs Katherine Garnier, presented each collector with a certificate of appreciation, a personal letter of thanks and in some cases, badges to mark significant milestones.

In their speeches Barry Oldham, Poppy Appeal Organiser, and Jimmy Garnier, Branch Chairman, reflected on the powerful impact of the collectors’ efforts, not only in raising valuable funds but in preserving the tradition and spirit of remembrance within the community.   Following the formalities, guests were treated to a delicious tea with a wide selection of cakes, some adorned with little edible poppies,  a thoughtful touch that brought smiles to many faces.

The Clun Valley takes great pride in its dedicated volunteers and the Clun Branch of the RBL was delighted to have the opportunity to thank all those who continue to support the 
annual Poppy Appeal.

2025 AWARD WINNERS

5 years       Jack Chapman, Nicky Moore,  Derek Starkey                              
10 years     Tony Weston, David Mansfield, Sylvia Meredith, Mike Tucker                                              
15 years      Brian Wallace, Margi Savery, Ennis Brown                      
20 years     Carol Morris
25 years      Jean Rudd
30 years      Dylis Wall,   Edna Lewis                        
35 years      Sue Morris
 

Pictured  above L-R.  Clun RBL Branch President Bob Jameson,  Edna Lewis from Aston on Clun who has run her local area for 30 years and is now retiring. Katherine Garnier DL