To launch this year’s Poppy Appeal, the Legion will stage a 24-hour watch on the Cenotaph in central London on Thursday 23 October. We’re looking for volunteers to participate in this very unique and special event. If you would like to be a part of The Watch, then read on to find out how to apply. And be sure to let your family and friends know about volunteering for the event—all watchers welcome!

With 2014 marking the 100th anniversary of the First World War, the Legion is asking people to not just mark the memory of the fallen, but to focus also on the future of the living.

On 23 October, the Legion will be holding a sunrise to sunset watch at the Cenotaph in central London, from 7.38 am to 5.51 pm. This Watch will mark the start of our annual Poppy Appeal.

We’re looking for volunteers who will help us keep watch. Each shift will last one hour and you will only be needed for one shift (unless you would like to do more!).

The origin of this concept comes from the Unknown Soldier. When his body was repatriated back to the United Kingdom, four soldiers kept watch over his coffin 24 hours a day.

So if you’re interested in remembering a loved one, celebrating a family member who is serving or has served or just want to show your respect and support to our brave Armed Forces community for this year's Poppy Appeal, then visit our website and tell us in 100 words or less why you would like to be a part of the Watch.

All submissions should be received by 10.00 am on Monday 20 October 2014. We will confirm who has been selected to take part in The Watch by 5.00 pm Monday 20 October 2014.