Council show support with giant poppy

The installation of the poppy has been supported by personal donations made by Cherwell councillors and the annual fundraising drive supports the British Legion’s work caring for and supporting members and veterans of the British Armed Forces.

Cllr Barry Wood, leader of the council, said: “At this time of year we at Cherwell join the rest of the nation in gratitude and remembrance of the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and their families, to support our freedoms and security.

“The Royal British Legion does very important work supporting veterans and their families, including caring for their physical and mental wellbeing, housing, and readjusting to civilian life after a period of service.

“And while people most commonly associate Remembrance with historic conflicts such as the First and Second World Wars, it is just as important that we recognise veterans of more recent operations and those who are currently serving.

“Arranging for our office to bear this poppy is a gesture of support that we hope will help bring the bravery and selflessness of our armed soldiers to the forefront of people’s minds as Remembrance Sunday approaches.”

This year, Royal British Legion fundraisers in Oxfordshire have set themselves a goal of raising £575,000, which would be a new record for the county. They are hoping that donations made in the run-up to this weekend’s Remembrance Sunday will help them achieve their aim.

Royal British Legion was founded by Lancastrian Lance Bombardier Tom Lister in 1921 to care for those who were suffering after the First World War, whether they were wounded veterans, orphaned children or widows. The first poppy day was held that year on 11 November.