The Royal British Legion

Fakenham and District Branch

Poppy Appeal

" Sterling service from the poppy appeal stalwarts "

Long-serving volunteers have been honoured by the Royal British Legion in Fakenham for their tireless work collecting money for the annual poppy appeal.

In the fortnight before Remembrance Sunday in November 2008, volunteers from the Fakenham and District branch collected £10, 975 for the charitable appeal, which supports serving and veteran services personnel.

And the dedication of the collectors was recognised at a presentation ceremony at the General Townshend Club.

One volunteer, Barbara Gage, received a backlog of certificates, lapel badges and a merit bar marking milestones in her selfless service, culminating in the award of her 35 year medal.

John Whiteside, vice-chairman of the branch, said: " It is very important to recognise people's efforts as we are totally dependent on volunteers. Without these people there would be no poppy appeal - simple as that."

Other awards went to:

John Ashley, five-year certificate.

Jo Ashley, five-year certificate.

Mrs V King, ten-year certificate.

Award winners not present were:

Sandra Batkin, five-year certificate.

Paul Mann, five-year certificate.

Lee Muston, five-year and ten-year certificates.

Poppy appeal organiser Gwen Pearce said: " These people are essential to us, but we are always looking for new volunteers. Some of these people are getting on in life, and to stand around in the cold and wet collecting money can become quite difficult, although they still do it. It would be nice for the younger generation to get involved as well "

Article from Dereham and Fakenham Times, June 25th 2009