Town's poppy appeal saved thanks to new volunteer

Karen Pitney has been appointed as the new Poppy Appeal co-ordinator in Stroud

A town's poppy appeal has been saved thanks to a new volunteer who will be co-ordinating the annual fundraiser.

Stroud District Council's Armed Forces Champions previously joined forces with the Royal British Legion (RBL) to urgently seek a new Poppy Appeal co-ordinator.

The RBL runs the poppy appeal every year to raise money for military veterans and serving personnel.

Karen Pitney, who is the daughter of a Royal Navy Sailor, has now been appointed to the role. She said: “For this year, I’m just going to do my best and will gratefully accept any help."

Chair of the Armed Forces Champions, councillor Kate Kay, said she was "very grateful" to Karen and all of the volunteers selling poppies across the area, who help keep the "cherished national tradition" running.

Funds raised provide support for the Armed Forces community, including housing, debt and money advice, mobility assistance, and employment support.

The money generated from poppy sales is spent on supporting veterans, active service personnel and their families

Poppies are available to buy at various locations throughout the Stroud district including major supermarkets, garages and on-street collections.

The appeal is the Royal British Legion’s largest fundraising campaign held in October and November ahead of Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday.

Stroud District Council’s Armed Forces Champion group, comprising of councillors and officers, meet regularly with local veterans’ groups to ensure the needs of veterans are met.