Thousands of poppies launch Ferndown Poppy Appeal

Ferndown Scouting groups, Parkstone Sea Cadets and the Ferndown Air Cadets all came together for this special anniversary.

The event started with the cadets assembling under Penny’s Walk clock tower before progressing through the precinct and assembling at the Barrington Centre.
Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Jean Read, judged the ‘young poppy’ competition. She also presented certificates for the best-dressed shop window.

Grant Parrott, chairman of Ferndown Royal British Legion, thanked everyone for supporting the event and gave a short talk. The Bournemouth Youth Marching Band played The Last Post before an explosion of poppies fluttered to the ground during the two minute silence. Sticking to tradition, the mayor bought the first poppy from veteran Mick Arnold MBE.

Best dressed shop window results: 1st Forum Framers; 2nd Cancer Research UK; 3rd Ferndown Florist.