Horsham’s annual Poppy Appeal hit by Covid crisis

Poppy Appeal organiser for Horsham Geoff Carter said: “This year is very difficult for all charities including the Royal British Legion.”

He said that as well as cancelling collections, the charity also has a limited amount of poppies left over from last year with no new deliveries being made from the charity’s central warehouse in Aylesford.

He said: “We have poppies, a limited number of wooden crosses and wreaths and, for schools, boxes which have a variety of items popular with youngsters. “However, there will be a number of new 2020 and VE75 enamel pins.

“Members of the public who would like to purchase a wreath are advised that a central contact number has been set up by the Legion. That number is: 0345 845 1945.

“We are mindful of the health and well being of our volunteers, so will only be able to collect with a table between the volunteer and members of the public who might wish to donate.

“This year, donations via QR codes are also being introduced.

“Sainsbury’s will be a major partner in this year’s collection and, where possible, we would ask that people do make every effort to collect a poppy from their Horsham store or one of the other businesses, pubs and schools who have agreed to take part in this year’s appeal.

“Regretfully we are unable to use the shop format we have had for many years in Swan Walk. However, we hope to be back for the 2021 Appeal, which is also the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Legion.

“We have been contacting businesses, pubs and schools who have been valued donation partners in previous years.”

But he said: “I am only able to reach out to about 20 per cent of those who have assisted in previous years as a result of the constraints imposed by Covid-19. I trust that, those volunteers and businesses who have helped us in the past will be assured that they have not been forgotten this year.”

He added: “In 2021, we would like to welcome back all who have helped us in previous years.”