Lack of volunteers could see donation shortfall

THE annual Poppy Appeal run by the Royal British Legion might not meet the cash target.

It wont be for the lack of kind-hearted donors, but volunteers for the street collections.

Appeal organiser for Manor Park Stan Sheilds said he was “pessimistic” as the annual search for collectors was “just really hard.”

He continued: “The trouble is we are all getting older and we can’t all go out into the communities and do it any more.”

Traditionally, the appeal has raised money for war veterans, but in recent years it has focused on fundraising for the Afghanistan generation of Armed Forces and their families.

Collectors are needed to sell poppies in rail stations, supermarkets and over 50 schools across Newham. Last year the borough donated �67,000.

If you wish to take part phone the London Poppy Appeal on (020) 7863 3370 or visit: londonpoppyappeal@britishlegion.org.uk before October 30.