The launch of the 2013 Poppy Appeal is always a time of mixed emotions. There is sadness for those who have lost their life in battle but also an immense amount of pride for all men and women who have served their country.
The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal gives everyone a chance to raise money to support the Armed Forces and their families.
Last year the national appeal raised £35m with an impressive £27,000 being donated in Ferndown.
Mrs Pat Birch, the chairman of the Ferndown branch of the Royal British Legion launched this year’s appeal on Friday 25 October at the Garden of Remembrance.
Legion members, town and district councillors, representatives of the fire service and police and ex service men and women gathered to watch deputy mayor Councillor Steve Lugg buy the first poppy from Diane Ridge, who organises the appeal in Ferndown.
Poppies will be worn with pride in the town until Remembrance Day on Monday 11 November.
