RBL Blackwood & District Branch host the Gwent Poppy Launch for the 2nd year.
Thursday 23rd October 2025 saw the launch of the Gwent poppy appeal. The launch was hosted by the Blackwood & District branch for the 2nd consecutive year. The event kicked off at St. Margarets Church in Blackwood where Rev Lisa Taylor led a very poignant yet uplifting service to a packed congregation of dignitaries. Attendees included the Lord Lieutenant Brigadier Robert Aitken CBE, the High Sheriff of Gwent and the Police & Crime Commissioner, local councillors, emergency services, serving and ex members of the British military, Royal British Legion members from across Gwent, local schools and the local community. The service provided a moving reminder of the sacrifices made by our ex servicemen and women and their families and emphasised the powerful symbol of remembrance. Local veteran and member of Blackwood branch John read a heartfelt poem and the congregation fell silent as the pipers lament echoed throughout the church.
A short march took place, led by parade marshall Kelvin Mulligan and accompanied by the piper between St. Margarets Church and Dragons Square with an “eyes right” to the Lord Lieutenant Brigadier Robert Aitken CBE on approach to Blackwood Miners Institute. Members of the public stopped to witness the march and joined in the gathering on the square where the Lord Lieutenant officially opened the launch following a 2 minute silence at Dragon Square. The audience took part in the singing of the national anthems and were led to Blackwood Miners Institute for further celebrations. Local Primary Schools performed songs and displayed their artwork whilst the audience took advantage of the complimentary food and drink available as they browsed the various stalls displayed. Awards were then presented to long standing members of the branch for their commitment, dedication and a show of appreciation.
The event was covered by local newspapers (Caerphilly Observer, South Wales Argus as well other military publications) and featured on ITV Wales news. The Poppy Launch has been highly praised and regarded in the community as a multi generational celebration of the day with children from local primary schools and members of 277 Blackwood Squadron RAF Air Cadets to our highly respected veterans and ex-servicemen. The High Sheriff of Gwent, Lt Col Ralph Griffin described the event as “an absolute triumph” and applauded the branch for its wide community involvement and “for making the Poppy Launch in Gwent so memorable”.
Blackwood & District branch Chair Mrs Natasha Hocking recognised the efforts made by all involved with these words: “I would like to extend my deepest thanks to everyone who made this event possible – from our dedicated volunteers and committee members to the community who joined us in support. Your presence and contributions remind us why the Poppy Appeal matters so deeply. It is not only a symbol of remembrance, but a lifeline of support for our veterans and their families. Together we honour the past and uphold the promise of care and gratitude. Thank you for standing with us.”
Labour MP Ruth Jones stated that “it was wonderful to see so many people, especially young people, engaged in the service and learning the importance of remembrance and the poppy”.
Poppy Appeal Organiser Mr Andrew Doody had a vision during the preparation of the launch to do bigger and better than last year and will now lead his team of dedicated volunteers to sell poppy’s at stalls in ASDA Blackwood and Aldi Blackwood until 11th November to help raise money and awareness for such a worthy cause.
