Royal British Legion

Firstly, I am able to report that the total raised during the 2025 Poppy Appeal was the magnificent sum of £24,298 with a little wreath money and Gift Aid tax recovery to add. This is significantly up on last year’s total and reflects great credit on all those who gave so generously, whether at our table in Waitrose or at one of the static points around including part of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and Cambridge Rugby Club. I am also indebted to the many volunteers who give freely of their time to help. Every penny raised goes to help those veterans and their families who the Royal British Legion supports.

Equally on Remembrance Sunday itself, possibly aided by fine autumnal weather, there was a record number at the War Memorial. We certainly ‘will remember them’. These days our Act of Remembrance is sadly spoilt by the noise of vehicles passing by, oblivious to the special time of day.

2026 will not bring the significant anniversaries we observed in 2025, except possibly the 110th anniversary (from 1 July to 18 November 1916) of the Battle of the Somme, which resulted in such huge casualties. A visit to the famous Lutyens-designed memorial at Thiepval followed by a drive down the Somme valley in Southern Picardy is a very sobering experience.

Finally, we welcomed some new volunteers to assist with the Poppy Appeal and I am grateful for their commitment. It is a very rewarding experience, especially when talking with the younger generation. To me it is an important gesture even if they only give a few pence. We always welcome new volunteers so please contact me if you would like to assist.

— Edmund Brookes, RBL — 01223 840374, edmundbrookes@outlook.com