Havering Launches 2026 Poppy Appeal as Mayor Leads Tributes to Armed Forces

23rd October 202623rd October 2026 Francesca Lilleystone 0 Comments Armed Forces, British Legion, Havering, Mercury Shopping Centre, Poppy Appeal Launch min read

Havering’s Mayor, Councillor Maggie Themastoclis, led the launch of the 2026 Poppy Appeal at The Mercury Shopping Centre in Romford yesterday, Thursday 22 October, as representatives from across the borough came together to honour the Armed Forces community and encourage residents to support this year’s appeal.

The event brought together Havering’s civic leaders, local MPs and members of the Royal British Legion to mark the start of the annual campaign, which raises money to support serving personnel, veterans and their families.

The Mayor was joined by Havering Council leader Councillor Keith Prince AM, Romford MP Andrew Rosindell and Hornchurch and Upminster MP Julia Lopez.

Councillor Bailey Nash-Gardner and Terry Brown were also present, alongside members of the Royal British Legion, whose volunteers play an important role in selling poppies across the borough.

Opening the event, Mayor Themastoclis thanked the Romford branch of the Royal British Legion for bringing everyone together and The Mercury Shopping Centre for hosting the launch.

She said: “The Mercury has supported the Royal British Legion for more than 20 years, and that longstanding commitment is a wonderful example of a local organisation standing alongside our Armed Forces community.”

The Mayor also paid tribute to the volunteers and collectors who will give their time to the appeal over the coming weeks.

“You are the public face of the Appeal in our town centres, shops, stations and neighbourhoods,” she said. “Your dedication allows people across Havering to take part in a national act of remembrance and support.”

A symbol of remembrance and sacrifice

The Mayor highlighted the importance of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance, respect and solidarity with those who have served their country.

“The poppy is a simple symbol, but it carries a powerful message,” she said. “Wearing one is a personal act of thanks, respect and solidarity with serving personnel, veterans, their families and the bereaved.”

She also stressed that the appeal provides practical help to members of the Armed Forces community, including support with housing, essential costs, recovery and wellbeing, care, and access to benefits and compensation.

The Mayor highlighted that last year’s national Poppy Appeal raised £56.6 million, with the money helping people and families facing difficult circumstances.

“Every donation made here in Havering contributes to that vital work,” she said.

MPs pay tribute to those who served

Romford MP Andrew Rosindell and Hornchurch and Upminster MP Julia Lopez also spoke about the importance of the Poppy Appeal and remembering those who have served in the Armed Forces.

Mr Rosindell paid tribute to those who had served in different wars, including his own father, as the launch brought together local representatives and Royal British Legion members to mark the beginning of the borough’s remembrance period.

The appeal provides an opportunity for residents to recognise the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces and to support those who continue to serve, as well as veterans and their families.

Havering urged to support the appeal

The Mayor encouraged residents across Havering to wear their poppy with pride, make a donation if they could and take a moment to reflect on the service and sacrifice it represents.

She also looked ahead to November, when the borough will come together for its Remembrance Sunday services and the Romford parade.

The events will provide further opportunities for residents to honour the fallen, recognise all who have served and show continued support for today’s Armed Forces community.

Concluding her speech, Mayor Themastoclis encouraged Havering residents to support the appeal, thank the volunteers they meet and remember the people behind the poppy.

“Please give generously if you are able, thank the volunteers you meet, and wear your poppy with pride and as a sign that Havering remembers.”