THE STORY OF THE POPPY

In the spring of 1915, shortly after losing a friend in Ypres, a Canadian doctor, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was inspired by the sight of poppies growing in battle-scarred fields to write a now famous poem called 'In Flanders Fields'. After the First World War, the poppy was adopted as a symbol of Remembrance.

WHAT THE POPPY MEANS

The poppy is

• A symbol of Remembrance and hope
• Worn by millions of people
• Red because of the natural colour of field poppies

The poppy is NOT

• A symbol of death or a sign of support for war
• A reflection of politics or religion
• Red to reflect the colour of blood

Wearing a poppy is a personal choice and reflects individual and personal memories. It is not compulsory but is greatly appreciated by those it helps – our beneficiaries: those currently serving in our Armed Forces, veterans, and their families and dependants.