SALISBURY'S branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) will launch its Poppy Appeal on Saturday, October 26, the charity has confirmed.

The launch will take place at 9.45am at the city's Guildhall Square, where poppies will be presented to selected members of Salisbury's armed forces community.

Vice Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire (VLL) Sir Andrew Gregory, MP John Glen and city mayor Sven Hocking will all be in attendance.

The RBL is also “honoured” to have Second World War veterans attending as its guests of honour, the oldest of whom will celebrate his 103rd birthday on October 25.

The launch will also commemorate the 10th anniversary of the UK's withdrawal from Camp Bastion and the end of Op HERRICK (combat operations in Afghanistan).

Tributes at the official opening of the 2023 Royal British Legion Field of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire.Tributes at the official opening of the 2023 Royal British Legion Field of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire. (Image: Joe Giddens/PA) HERRICK veterans are “especially welcome” to join the launch to commemorate the campaign and enjoy a breakfast bap, a brew and some banter in the veterans' village afterwards.

Bob Barwick, vice president of the Salisbury Branch of the RBL, said: “Our appeal is launched in a year that has seen the nation reflect on events 80 years ago on D-Day in June 1944. 

“The 10th anniversary of the end of Op HERRICK is another poignant reminder that ongoing support continues to be required for individuals across all the generations. 

“We hope that the people of Salisbury can support us by wearing a poppy and sparing a moment to reflect on all the sacrifices our armed services have made for this country.”

The RBL is the UK's biggest armed forces charity. It continues to distribute the proceeds of the Poppy Appeal to current and former service personnel who are in need.