PRUDHOE and District Poppy Appeal has been officially launched.

It comes as detail's of this year's Remembrance Sunday parade have also been announced.

This year the annual Poppy Appeal collection takes on a greater meaning as it is the centenary year of the Royal British Legion (RBL).

The commemorations on November 14 will begin on the Legion car park, where those taking part in the parade should gather at 10.30am.

Uniformed services and organisations will parade with the Northumbrian Pipe Band along Front Street, giving ‘eyes left’ at the Royal British Legion plaque on The Glade. The parade will continue into Kepwell Court to the Lychgate War Memorial at St Mary Magdalene Church. The service will start at 10.55am with the Act of Remembrance at 11am and wreath-laying to follow.

A road closure will be in place.

First time mayor, Coun. Bryan Futers is a proud supporter of the Royal British Legion. As well as being especially honoured to lay a wreath, on behalf of the people of Prudhoe, he will also be wearing his grandfather’s medals.

“I know that historically the people of Prudhoe have been very generous in their support of the armed forces, veterans and their families, and with their presence on Remembrance Sunday", he said.

“It is so important to keep the message of Remembrance alive, and I know from recent visits to schools that this is imparted on the younger generation also. The Prudhoe Branch of the Royal British Legion is at the heart of this message and their limited numbers work tirelessly all year round.

"Please give generously to the 2021 Poppy Appeal, but also show your appreciation to local collectors and give them your time.”

Prudhoe Branch poppy collectors will be out in the community at Prudhoe Co-op and Blaydon Morrisons. Poppies and collection tins will also be distributed to local shops, pubs, restaurants, and schools.

The Prudhoe Branch is also aiming to install the lamppost poppies once more, and to encourage window displays in local shops. The knitted poppy tribute on the Glade will also be added to.

In 2020, the Prudhoe and District Branch raised £16,726.11 - despite limited collecting due to Covid-19.

The Prudhoe & District Branch is actively seeking new members. Anyone can join the Royal British Legion; they don’t have to have served in the military. Membership is £18 per year, for more information visit https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/things-to-do/membership/become-a-member