The Poppy Appeal is one of the nation's most important annual appeals, it raises the funds the RBL needs to carry out its welfare and benevolent work.

Millions of poppies, made at the poppy factory every year, enable people to show that they wish to remember the dead and wounded Servicemen and women.The poppy has become a symbol of remembrance.

Many ex-service people work at the poppy factory, seventy percent of whom are disabled in some way. Unlike some other ex-service charities it receives no Government support financially and is entirely dependent on voluntary donations to fund the growing demand for its welfare services. 

Since 1952 a total of £223,383.06 has been collected in Long Eaton below is the totals over the years. We only have records going back to 1952 and do not know where the records are for 1921 to 1951.     

Note: Britain converted to "Decimal Currency" in 1971.                           

All the money raised is spent on welfare for the Serving and ex-serving Armed Forces Community. Without our collectors these totals could not have been achieved and although it is all voluntary we do try to give awards as appreciation for services rendered. Over the years many members, collectors, helpers, shops and factories have received these awards. After 10 years a certificate of appreciation. 15 years a brooch or tie tack. 25 years a Poppy Appeal merit badge and after 30 years the Poppy Appeal medal or brooch. Each succeeding 5 years after the 30 year award a bar to the medal or brooch. To Corporate Organisations the award of a certificate of appreciation in support of the Appeal.   

Many difficulties arise at times in organising the Appeal but with a dedicated band of helpers these are usually surmounted, as our collections show.

In 1972 we decided to hold a stall selling poppies etc., the first one being at the side of the War Memorial, later moving to near Lunn Poly, then on the market. The totals raised varied throughout the years, but £2952.61 has been taken since its inception. Unfortunately because of changes with the Market and stall holders having to provide their own stalls we had to discontinue holding a stall in 2009.