The Stourbridge Poppy Appeal is looking for new volunteers after a record-breaking year that raised more than £36,000, with organiser Suzanne Webb adding extra collection stands for this year's campaign.
Suzanne Webb OBE, former MP for Stourbridge and Poppy Appeal Organiser for Stourbridge and District, is expanding the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal with additional collection stands across the area. The move follows the success of last year's appeal, which raised over £36,000 thanks to local volunteers and donors.
Expanded appeal needs more helpers
While most of last year's volunteers are returning, the increased number of stands means more people are needed to help run them. Suzanne is appealing to anyone who can spare time, even just an hour or two, to get involved.
"Last year was an incredible year for our local Poppy Appeal. We raised more than £36,000, but that success was entirely down to our wonderful volunteers and the generosity of Stourbridge," Suzanne said.
"Every person who gave up an hour, an afternoon or several days played their part. It showed just how generous our community is and how strongly people continue to support the Royal British Legion and those who have served our country."
Volunteers at the heart of the appeal
Volunteers help make poppies available throughout the community and raise vital funds for the Royal British Legion's work supporting serving and former members of the Armed Forces and their families. There are opportunities to volunteer at stands across Stourbridge and the surrounding district, with people able to offer anything from an hour or two to a more regular commitment.
"But anyone who knows me knows that I don't do things by halves! Rather than simply repeat what we did last year, I've added more stands to the appeal this year – which means I need a few more volunteers to help us run them," Suzanne added.
"I'm delighted that our fantastic volunteers from last year are coming back again, but with a bigger appeal we need some new faces too."
No experience needed
Suzanne stressed that no previous experience is required and that even a small amount of time can make a difference. "You don't need any previous experience, and you don't have to make a huge commitment. Even an hour or two of your time helps and, when everyone gives a little, it adds to something quite remarkable," she said.
"The Poppy Appeal simply couldn't happen without volunteers, so I would love to hear from anyone who would like to get involved for the first time."
"Last year demonstrated what we can achieve when our community comes together. This year we're going bigger, with more stands and more opportunities for people to support the Poppy Appeal," Suzanne said. "We have a brilliant team of returning volunteers. Now we just need a few more people to join us. If you can spare an hour or two, please come forward – we'd love to have you as part of the team."
Anyone interested in volunteering for this year's Poppy Appeal is encouraged to contact Suzanne via email at RBLPOPPYAPPEALSTOURBRIDGE@GMAIL.COM.
