Poppy appeal launches across the borough to honour those who served

Red poppies can be spotted in Blackburn Mall and Darwen Market from this week as the community came together for the annual launch of the Poppy Appeal Hub.

The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Jacquie Slater, accompanied members of the Royal British Legion to open this year’s official Poppy Appeal Hub in Blackburn Mall and Darwen Market.

The Poppy Appeal Hub sells a variety of official Royal British Legion merchandise including poppies. Visitors can donate to The Poppy Appeal by interacting in the hub.

Visitors can pick up a poppy and wear it with pride, donate, volunteer, become a branch member, or simply stop by for a brew and a friendly chat with volunteers.

Council Leader, Cllr Phil Riley said:

We know many people in the borough wish to show their support for the Armed Forces. The opening of the Poppy Appeal Hub. in Blackburn and Darwen gives them an opportunity to stop by to make a donation, as well as learn more about the charity and the continuous support it offers.

As a Council, we are very proud that there is such an active branch of the Royal British Legion in the borough and the vital work that they do.

Royal British Legion Blackburn Chair and Poppy Appeal Organiser, Neil Shorrock added:

Every poppy worn shows that you care – a symbol of remembrance and respect for those who gave their lives and for those who continue to serve today.

By donating to the Poppy Appeal, you are helping to support our Armed Forces community. Since 1921, the Royal British Legion has provided vital assistance to serving personnel, veterans, and their families.

The Poppy Appeal simply couldn’t run without our fantastic volunteers. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all those who have already given their time and energy to help make this year’s campaign a success.

We are still looking for more volunteers to help us make an even greater impact on the Blackburn and Darwen Poppy Appeals. If you would like to get involved, please visit the Poppy Appeal Hub in The Mall, Blackburn, to find out more and join the team.

Together, we can ensure that every poppy helps make a difference

The Poppy Appeal for 2025 will run until Remembrance Day on November 11, 2025, when communities across the borough will pause to remember those who served.