The plastic-free poppy is said to be easily recycled and will be sold during the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal, the charity’s biggest fundraising campaign that takes place every year in the run up to Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday.

The UK’s biggest armed Forces charity, the Royal British Legion, RBL, which organises the Poppy Appeal every October and November, relies on more than 3,500 dedicated volunteers to help deliver the appeal across the UK each year.

Poppy Appeal launches will be taking place this weekend. Locally there will be one in Ferndown town centre on 28 October starting at 10.30am. Bournemouth Youth Marching Band will set off from outside Tesco and march to the Clocktower. Another will be held in Salisbury, but more volunteers are needed in the city to help the charity, which raises vital funds to help veterans, serving personnel, and their families.

Anyone who can spare a few hours between October 28 and November 11 should call 01722 555208, visit rbl.org.uk/poppyappealvolunteer, or email sarum273@gmail.com.

Bob Barwick is vice president of the Salisbury Branch of the Royal British Legion. He said: “We would encourage anyone who is interested in volunteering for the Poppy Appeal to get in touch with us to find out more.

“Our volunteers are crucial to delivering the Appeal in Salisbury and you will be fully supported, including training in Harnham on October 4. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, support your community and build your skills.”

Bob added: “We are having a major launch event for the Poppy Appeal this year on the Market Square on 28 October, and with more volunteers on board, we can raise even more money for our local Armed Forces community.”

The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal first took place in the aftermath of the First World War in 1921 when red silk poppies were sold, raising over £106,000.