Volunteers needed in Shrewsbury to support Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal

The Royal British Legion is appealing for volunteers in Shropshire – particularly in Shrewsbury – to help deliver this year's Poppy Appeal and raise vital funds for the Armed Forces community.

The charity, which organises the annual Poppy Appeal ahead of Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday, is looking for people who can spare a few hours to support the fundraising campaign.

More than 3,500 volunteers help deliver the appeal across the UK each year, with the Royal British Legion now seeking more people to get involved locally.

Jenny Komiatis, the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal manager for Shropshire, said: "We would encourage anyone who is interested in volunteering for the Poppy Appeal to get in touch with us to find out more.

"If you are looking for a more active part in the Appeal, we would love to have you as a Poppy Appeal Organiser. This role is crucial to delivering the Appeal and organising a team of dedicated volunteers.

"You will be fully supported in the role, including training before the Poppy Appeal.

"Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, support your community and build your skills."

The Poppy Appeal is the Royal British Legion's biggest annual fundraising campaign, with money raised helping veterans, serving personnel and their families through expert advice and practical support. The charity provides help with housing, debt and money advice, employment, and physical and mental health.

Among those to benefit from the charity's work is Army veteran Clive Jones, from Market Drayton, who was blinded while serving.

After attending the Royal British Legion's Battle Back Centre at Lilleshall, which supports injured, sick and wounded service personnel and veterans, he said the experience transformed his recovery.

He said: "Going to the Battle Back Centre changed everything for me and my family. I never knew the RBL ran such a recovery centre for veterans, but it was what I needed at that point in my life.

"I was in a slump and still coming to terms with being blind, yet from day one there I was made to feel I could do anything. Every activity was accessible and I absolutely loved the archery and I was doing things I hadn't done in years.

"Physically and mentally, it was the best thing I could have done for my recovery and I cannot emphasise enough how after one week I came back a changed man."

Anyone interested in volunteering for this year's Poppy Appeal can contact the Royal British Legion on 0345 845 1945 or online at rbl.org.uk/poppyappealvolunteer.