Latest News
Mike Mayo wins British Blind Masters 2010
Poppyscotland congratulates golfer Mike Mayo, from Lesmahagow, who has won the 2010 British Blind Masters. Mike is a veteran of the Royal Navy and served in Northern Ireland before being registered blind in 2002. After suffering from Macular Degeneration, he was introduced to blind golf in 2003 and has since become one of the best blind-golf players in Scotland.
Mike competed in the 2010 Lawrence Levy British Blind Golf Masters from 28th June to 1st July at the China Fleet Golf & Country Club, Saltash, Cornwall, and won the event by a massive 18 shots! This event is the longest blind golf event over four rounds of medal play and Mike has won the event a record four times - in 2003/2005/2007/2010. In recognition of the support Poppyscotland has given him in the past, Mike proudly wore the poppy emblem on his clothing during play.
Poppyscotland Chief Executive Ian McGregor congratulated Mike, saying: "Mike is a truly inspirational figure and a proud example of the wide-range of skills and expertise ex-Servicemen and women have to offer. This accolade is very well-deserved and we send him our warmest congratulations."
Poppyscotland and Age Scotland launch new factsheet for older veterans
In conjunction with Age Scotland, Poppyscotland has launched a new guide aimed at veterans and their dependants in Scotland over the age of 55. Jim Tolson MSP, who is a member of the cross-party working group for supporting veterans, introduced the factsheet, entitled Older Veterans Living in Scotland, during a visit to Lady Haig's Poppy Factory in Edinburgh.
Published by Age Scotland, with advice on content and development from Poppyscotland, the 27-page factsheet covers issues such as finance, health, housing, social opportunities, remembrance and employment, as well as service-related information, including veterans' rights, medals and service records. There is also a comprehensive directory of ex-Service charities, which offer specialist support to veterans in Scotland.
Jim Tolson MSP said: "As a member of the cross-party group for supporting veterans in Scotland, I am delighted to announce the publication of this new fact sheet, which offers a wealth of information for older veterans. It is important that our veterans are given the support they deserve and that they can access information that is tailored to their needs."
Download the factsheet here or visit www.agescotland.org.uk
Fife man to embark on Three Bridges Challenge to raise funds for Scotland's veterans
A former Royal Navy chef who lives in Fife will embark on a 24 hour, 150-mile fundraising challenge on a motorised scooter, to raise funds for veterans' charity Poppyscotland.
Andrew, 52, from Carnock, will depart from the Forth Road Bridge and make his way towards the Tay Bridge. He will then travel to the Kincardine Bridge before returning to his starting point. He was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2002 and is registered disabled. Because of his condition his mobility is limited and he uses a wheelchair.
Andrew said: "For several years I have been contemplating an event that would both challenge my disability and raise much-needed funds for a service-related charity. I am the Secretary of the Fife Veterans Association and recently visited Poppyscotland and met the staff and veterans who make the poppies. I was very impressed with their work and decided that they would be my chosen charity. My target is £500 but if I can add an extra nought to that figure then it will make a lot of very deserving people extremely happy. We have now passed the 300 mark of young men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan. I hope that my Three Bridges trek with all the money going directly to Poppyscotland will encourage people to support me."
Andrew will use four scooters on his journey – two of which have been donated by Poppyscotland. He will be fully supported by the 1st Battalion the Scots Guards detachment at Redford Barracks, Edinburgh with two soldiers accompanying him en route.
Andrew will be accepting donations on the route but has also set up a dedicated online fundraising page. To make a donation go to http://www.justgiving.com/Three-Bridges
Family Fun For All At Totepool Armed Forces Family Raceday
Totepool Armed Forces Family Raceday at Ayr Racecourse on Sunday July 4 promises to be a super day out for everyone.
There's seven races for the grown ups, entertainment and competitions. There's also fairground rides, a surf simulator, pony rides, Punch and Judy Show, face painting, crazy golf, circus skills and much more.
Entry is free to all current serving members of the Armed Forces and their families, as well as members of all veterans' associations and veterans' charities. Each member will be entitled to claim a free Grandstand Family Ticket which allows access for two adults and up to three children under 16.
Tickets must be booked in advance before June 30 2010 and are obtainable by the following methods:
Veterans
Via your Veterans Association/Charity; or members of the Royal British Legion can also book direct with Ayr Racecourse on 01292 264179 (membership card will be required for collection of tickets on the day)
For those booking tickets direct from the Racecourse or their Veterans Association, a donation of £1 (total) will be requested on collection of the tickets, in support of Poppyscotland.
Serving Forces
Via Tickets for Troops – book online at www.ticketsfortroops.co.uk (£1 donation requested on booking); or direct from Ayr Racecourse – telephone 01292 264179 and request a 'Forces Family Ticket'. Tickets will be collected from the Racecourse on the day – a form of Military ID will be required.
Gates open at 12.10pm and first race is at 2.10pm and the last race on the card is due off at 5.10pm.
For more information visit www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk or call 01292-264179.
Crime Writer Quintin Jardine Unveils New Walking Tour Charity Launch in aid of Poppyscotland
Crime writer Quintin Jardine today (11 June) unveiled a new walking tour of Edinburgh, based around the adventures of his fictional cop hero Bob Skinner, and created by specialist tour company Saints and Sinners. The venture was launched at an inaugural outing in aid of Poppyscotland.
The author was at the Roxburghe Hotel to meet fans ahead of the unique tour, which revisits crime locations and incidents investigated by Skinner, branded as 'Scotland's toughest cop'.
Quintin Jardine said: "I am enormously pleased to be launching the Skinner tour, and I thank Saints & Sinners and Peter Hamilton for their vision in putting it together. I hope it will appeal to Skinner fans and am pleased that today gives us an opportunity to support Poppyscotland."
Tour organiser and leader Peter Hamilton said: "I am donating the money from today's launch to Poppyscotland because my father was in the Army. Poppyscotland are needed more now than ever before, with young men and women being killed or seriously injured in serving their country."
Future tours will run every Saturday from 26 June at 10.30am, leaving from the Roxburghe Hotel. This will be extended to every day during the Edinburgh Fringe.
Poppyscotland congratulates Neil McLennan
Poppyscotland congratulates Neil McLennan, head of history at Tynecastle High School, who was recently honoured by the General Teaching Council for Scotland at Holyrood for successfully introducing a range of projects including launching Poppyscotland's education materials.
At a presentation in the Scottish Parliament Neil was awarded Professional Recognition status and received a certificate from Keith Brown MSP, minister for skills and lifelong learning.
Neil was instrumental in launching the first phase of Poppyscotland's education materials and the launch was held in Tynecastle High. He is currently seconded to Learning and Teaching Scotland (LTS), which provides advice to Scottish ministers on matters of curriculum and assessment.
Neil said: "Every teacher receiving recognition today has contributed not only to bringing learning alive for their students, but also to enhancing their local community through enterprising approaches to education. Through their work, skilled and confident youngsters are emerging ready for the world of work and lifelong learning.
"I am delighted to be amongst the first recipients and in my new role I will be aiming to support more teachers and hope that they too will go forward to be acknowledged for the excellent work they do with our young people."
Crime Writer Quintin Jardine Launches New Walking Tour In Aid Of Poppyscotland
Crime fiction fans will have the chance to meet famous author Quintin Jardine as he launches a new walking tour in Edinburgh on Friday 11 June, in aid of Poppyscotland.
The Scottish author's fictional Edinburgh detective, Bob Skinner, will come alive from the pages of crime novels and on to the streets of Edinburgh. A two-hour journey will revisit the crime locations and incidents investigated by the detective, revealing the city's genteel culture but also its dark and sinister underbelly.
The tour is being organised and led by experienced tour guide Peter Hamilton (from Saints and Sinners Tours). It will leave from the Roxburghe Hotel on Charlotte Square at 10am (refreshments will be served beforehand) and will finish at the Writers Museum at the Lawnmarket.
Before the tour commences, Quintin Jardine will sign two copies of his novel Fatal Last Words, for a prize draw.
The entry fee is £10 and money raised from the tour will be donated to Poppyscotland.
To book your place please contact Peter Hamilton on 07803 475688, email phamrun@aol.com or visit www.edinburghsaintsandsinners.co.uk.
Nick Clegg Meets Veterans at Famous Lady Haig's Poppy Factory
Nick Clegg, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, met Armed Forces veterans at the famous Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh, as part of his election campaign tour in Scotland. Mr Clegg was given a tour of the Factory and was shown how to make poppies by the 36 veterans with disabilities who each year hand-assemble five million poppies and 8,000 wreaths for the Scottish Poppy Appeal in November. The Liberal Democrat leader also learned about the vital work carried out by Poppyscotland. He was accompanied by Tavish Scott MSP and the candidates for Edinburgh South and Edinburgh North & Leith - Fred Mackintosh and Kevin Lang.
Lorraine Kelly Announces Record Poppy Appeal
Scots TV star Lorraine Kelly has announced that the 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal has broken all records to raise an impressive £2.2 million.
Lorraine Kelly, an Ambassador for Poppyscotland, was joined by volunteers at Dundee's City Square to proudly display the grand total (£2,215,745*) which will go to help veterans and their families in need throughout Scotland.
Speaking at the event, Lorraine Kelly said: "This is a fantastic result and shows how much the public cares about Scotland's veterans. The work of Poppyscotland is even more relevant now than it's ever been.
"Our Servicemen and women are putting their lives on the line every day. Some are returning home with devastating injuries and memories of the horrific traumas they have experienced."
A TV advertising campaign will be launched on 25 March to encourage more people to step forward and volunteer for this year's Poppy Appeal. Worryingly, many of Poppyscotland's current volunteers are nearing retirement age and Poppyscotland is urgently appealing for people to help continue the organisation's success year-round.
*The 2009 figure of £2,215,745 is correct as of 24 March 2010 with funds still being received daily. The final audited figure will be announced in June 2010.
Soldier completes 500 mile trek across Scotland to fight for blind daughter's place at school
Soldier Mac McGearey today (Friday 26 February) crossed the finish line at Edinburgh Castle after completing a gruelling 500-mile trek round Scotland to raise money to fund a place at the Royal Blind School for his severely disabled 13-year-old daughter Ciara, while he attempts to fight a decision by the City of Edinburgh Council not to fund the placement.
Mac, based at Redford Barracks, was greeted at the finish by wife Rosie and members of his regiment - 1st Royal Tank Regiment, accompanied by a piper - with many more well-wishers on the sidelines. Over £14,000 has been raised from public donations during Mac's walk and this amount, which follows an immediate grant from veterans' charity Poppyscotland and other Service charities, means Ciara is back in the Royal Blind School temporarily. However, more money is needed.
People wishing to support the 500 Miles for Ciara appeal should visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk/ciara where they can find out more or make a donation.
Edinburgh Schools Are Top Of The Poppies in National Poetry Competition
Two Edinburgh schools, Hermitage Park Primary and James Gillespie's High, have won a national schools poetry competition, organised by Poppyscotland in partnership with the Scottish Poetry Library. Poppy Poetry is part of Sowing the Poppy seed - Poppyscotland's three-year education project that aims to revolutionise the way pupils learn about veterans, remembrance and conflict.
The winners were Kirsty Simpson, P7, Hermitage Park Primary School, with her poem We Meet in the Silence, and Robert Wright, S1, James Gillespie's High School, with Birds of the Battlefield. There were two categories - P4-7 and S1-3, and almost 4,000 entries were received. Stimulus for the competition was photographs by acclaimed war photographer, Robert Wilson, taken in Baghdad, Iraq, and Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
At a presentation at Lady Haig's Poppy Factory today the winning pupils were awarded a digital compact camera and their schools were given an SLR digital camera. As part of their prize, winning pupils' classes will also enjoy professional poet workshops with the Scottish Poetry Library. To find out more and to read the poems visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk/education.
Melrose Rugby Club to camouflage itself for Poppyscotland
Melrose RFC, known worldwide as the home of the Sevens, is to wear a new camouflage strip for the 2010 Sevens season as a mark of respect for the bravery and sacrifice of our Service personnel.
The limited-edition strip will also be available to the general public on a first-come basis - with the Club making a donation to Poppyscotland for each jersey sold.
Club President Mike Dalgetty said that: "Everyone is immensely proud of the young men and women who are bravely serving their country and as a Club we wanted to do something to show our support."
The 127th staging of the Mathon Melrose Sevens (9th-10th April) will also see an Army team entered into the main competition, with a range of fundraising events also planned.
The limited-edition replica jersey can be pre-ordered at www.melroserugbyshop.co.uk or by phone on 01896 822993.
Soldier walking 500 miles to fight for daughter's place at Blind School
Mac McGearey, a soldier based at Redford Barracks with 23 years' service, is walking 500 miles round Scotland to raise money to fund a place at the Royal Blind School in Edinburgh for his severely disabled 13-year-old daughter Ciara, while he attempts to fight a decision by the City of Edinburgh Council not to fund the placement.
Ciara contracted meningitis when she was 3 days old. This left her blind and suffering from a number of disabilities. From the age of 6 months she attended the Royal Blind School where she received excellent specialist care, but when Mac was posted to England his wife Rosie and Ciara had to move with him. Ciara's new school did not offer the level of care she needed and when the family received a posting back to Edinburgh, they jumped at the chance to return so that Ciara could go back to the Royal Blind School. However, the City of Edinburgh Council refused to fund the placement.
An independent tribunal ruled that the Royal Blind School is best suited to provide the level of care that Ciara needs but the Council has hired a prominent advocate to appeal the tribunal's decision at considerable cost to the taxpayer.
Mac and Rosie believe the Council is putting cost considerations ahead of Ciara's care needs and that he is being unfairly treated because of the nature of his job. As a serving soldier, he does not have a choice over where he is posted.
Poppyscotland has stepped in to support the family. We have given them a grant of up to £5,000 to fund a month's place for Ciara at the Royal Blind School while Mac is doing the walk. We have set up and are administering a personalised online fundraising system, as well as producing sponsorship forms and flyers, to help Mac raise money on his walk. We also organised a media photo call today to bring the case to the attention of the media and the general public.
Mac hopes to raise enough money to get Ciara the care she requires until the case is heard at the Court of Session later this year. The walk commences tomorrow and will take approximately one month to complete.
For more info go to www.poppyscotland.org.uk/ciara.
All Aboard for Safety
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| Photo Credit: Lewis J Houghton |
Forth Ports Leith Operations Manager Kenny Williamson said: "Forth Ports wished to recognise its employees' efforts and progress within the initiative and were pleased to accept Leith's safety representatives' request to make a donation to Poppyscotland, a deserving charity."
Hibs & Hearts Players Launch Veterans' Picture Framing Website
Edinburgh football stars David Obua and Chris Hogg have put aside their fierce rivalry on the pitch to join forces in aid of Scottish veterans by assisting in the launch of a new website for Lady Haig's Poppy Factory.
Both players have also kindly donated their playing shirts from the Edinburgh derby on Poppy Saturday, which featured the poppy alongside the clubs crest, in recognition of the 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal. The shirts, which have been framed, will now be auctioned on ebay via the new Poppy Factory website.
The new website includes the history of Lady Haig's Poppy Factory, which opened in 1926, and explains how the 5 millions poppies are produced each year. The famous Factory employs 40 veterans with disabilities to hand-assemble Scotland's poppies and wreaths, also runs a framing service, which is open to the public..
Poppyscotland Takes to the Catwalk
Poppyscotland has been selected as one of three beneficiary charities of the prestigious 2010 Edinburgh Charity Fashion Show. ECFS 2010 promises to be a surrealist spectacle featuring live music, dancers and magicians, as well as clothing modeled by 30 of Edinburgh's most striking students. There will be an eclectic mix of high-end fashion houses and up-and-coming young designers, with previous years featuring Luella, Nicole Farhi, Betty Jackson and Jaegar.
The two night event is being held on 19th and 20th March 2010, with the first night hosting over 1,100 of Edinburgh's most glamorous students and the second being a more lavish and intimate black-tie affair hosting 300 specially invited guests who will be treated to VIP goody bags, a sumptuous three course meal and flowing champagne. As is tradition, the shows will be followed by after-parties which last year featured a live acoustic set by Hugh and Luke from The Kooks.
More information about The Edinburgh Charity Fashion Show can be found on the ECFS Website and videos of previous shows can be seen on our YouTube Channel.
Kirkintilloch Somme Walk For Heroes
Six dedicated Poppyscotland supporters have taken it upon themselves to do something wonderful to raise money for our cause. They aim to walk from the Menin Gate in Ypres, Belgium to the Thiepval memorial near Albert, France. The distance is approximately 97km and they hope to do it over the space of three days, beginning 28th June 2010. If all goes to plan then they will hopefully arrive at the Thiepval Memorial on 1st July in time for the annual commemoration of the start of the battle of the Somme. This takes place around 3pm.
The group hopes to raise a fantastic £5,000 through their efforts. If you would like to help them towards achieving this target then why not make a donation.
Poppyscotland Embroidered Hibernian Shirts up for Auction
The recent Edinburgh derby saw Hibernian FC and Heart of Midlothian FC wear shirts embroidered with poppies in support of the Scottish Poppy Appeal.
Hibernian's match-worn jerseys will now be auctioned off via Hibernianfc.co.uk with all monies raised being split between Poppy Scotland and the Hibernian Community Foundation.
Shirts available for bids include: Stack, Hogg, Murray, Rankin, Stevenson, McBride, Wotherspoon, Miller, Nish, Stokes, Benjelloun and Riordan.
The shirts featuring individual player signatures will be auctioned via blind email bids starting from £100. Supporters can email: poppy@hibernianfc.co.uk with bid amounts, shirt name, including full name, address and day-time contact numbers. Closed date for bids; 12 noon, Monday 30th November. More information on the shirts available at www.hibernianfc.co.uk.
Getting behind the Scottish Poppy Appeal
Lorraine Kelly spoke of her support for the Appeal: "As a Dundee United fan I am delighted that my local team and St Johnstone are joining together to ensure that the SPL teams from Dundee and Perth will be wearing poppies. I hope football fans will also support the Scottish Poppy Appeal to ensure that veterans and their families across Scotland receive the help they deserve."
Photo: Lorraine Kelly joins Dundee United and St Johnstone to back 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal.
Brigadier Allfrey said: "I am delighted to join Poppyscotland collectors in drumming up support for this year's appeal. Volunteers across Scotland do a stunning job of collecting at this time of year and they warrant our sincere gratitude and support.
Photo: Brigadier David Allfrey, Commander 51 (Scottish) Brigade, joins poppy collectors in Stirling to drum up support for the 2009 Appeal.
Scot Charlie Adam said: "I am very proud of my Scottish roots and I would like to thank Blackpool for providing Stephen Crainey and myself with a separate Poppyscotland shirt to help raise vital funds. It is important that we never forget those who have done a great deal for our country."
Photo: Blackpool FC has commissioned a Scottish Poppy shirt to be auctioned for Poppyscotland. Poppyscotland is delighted by this gesture from the club.
Photo Credit: Phill Heywood
Scottish football shows its support
All 12 of Scotland's SPL football clubs are showing their support for the 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal with players wearing the poppy during their matches on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November.
Poppyscotland is confident the clubs' will help play a vital a role in raising awareness of the support we give to the veterans' community amongst the thousands of fans who will be attending the weekend's fixtures.
First Division Teams Dunfermline and Raith Rovers will also be wearing the poppy during the Fife derby game and Poppyscotland hopes that other First Division Clubs will follow their lead next year.
Supporters' messages on display the Omni shopping Centre
Poppyscotland has teamed up with the Omni Centre in Edinburgh to display 'pop-out' poppies with messages of remembrance, respect or support for the Armed forces, veterans or loved ones.
The giant display was launched by Veterans from World War II, the Falklands, Iraq and Afghanistan and features words from the supporters of Poppyscotland who overwhelmingly responded to our letter asking them for their thoughts on a 'pop-out' poppy.
The poppies will be displayed on banners in the large windows of the city centre venue and there will also be an interactive facility for members of the public to create their own messages, which will be displayed on screens in the centre.
Former Miss Scotland Nieve Jennings joins forces to launch poppy milk label
Former Miss Scotland Nieve Jennings joined soldiers from the Royal Regiment of Scotland to launch Robert Wiseman Dairies' special edition Poppy label.
To show their support for the 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal, Wiseman has put the poppy logo on millions of their milk bottle labels for sale across Scotland and the rest of the UK.
"Nieve, who was Miss Scotland in 2007, launched the special edition labels with Private Scott from 3 Para and Private Cowan from 5 SCOTS, both of whom have served in Afghanistan.
Former Miss Scotland Nieve Jennings says: "What a great way for Wiseman to show their support of the Scottish Poppy Appeal. It demonstrates their support as a company as well as helping to raise awareness. These bottles will be seen on breakfast tables and in fridges across the country, providing a reminder to people of the importance of this charity to support the veterans returning from active service. "
The Wiseman special edition poppy milk label is available in convenience stores across the country in the lead up to remembrance Sunday.
Veterans make an impression on Rory Bremner at launch of Scottish Poppy Appeal
Comedian and impersonator Rory Bremner has launched the 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal in Jedburgh. The Poppyscotland ambassador was joined by young veterans Steve Beedie and Stuart Proudfoot to call for people in Scotland to dig deep and to wear their poppies with pride.
Speaking at the launch, Rory said: "It is a great honour to launch the Scottish Poppy Appeal and to meet Stuart and Steve, who are remarkable young men.
"Poppyscotland does some fantastic work, all year round, but their success rests on the amount they raise from people buying poppies and taking part in other fundraising activities. I would urge everyone in Scotland to give as much as they can this year, so that people like Stuart and Steve can continue to receive the support they deserve."
Rory recently took part in the BBC Series, Who Do You Think You Are? where he learned about his family's long history of military Service. His father, Major Donald Bremner, who fought in WWII and played a pivotal role in the battle for the Dutch city of Hertogenbosch and his great-grandfather was decorated in the Crimean War.
The Scots-born comedian said: "Scotland has a fascinating military history and there are countless men and women, past and present who have continued the Scottish military's traditions of dedication and courage. I strongly believe that we should honour their sacrifices by wearing our poppies with pride."
Reception to launch 2009 Appeal held at Glasgow's Kelvingrove
A reception to launch the 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal took place at Kelvingrove Museum & Art Gallery, Glasgow, on Friday 23 October.
BBC newsreader Sally McNair compered the event, which saw a screening of Poppyscotland's hard-hitting TV advert. The two veterans from the advert told their own stories - Steve Beedie delivered a speech to the audience and there was a special video of a personal story from Stuart Proudfoot.
Other highlights included four President's Awards to volunteers with over 160 years' service between them, a performance by the P7 choir of St Timothy's RC Primary School and a speech from Brigadier Alfrey, Commander of 51 Brigade.
Black Watch Soldier Presents Poppy Football Shirt to Prime Minister
A Black Watch soldier from Fife presented a special poppy-emblazoned Raith Rovers football shirt to the Prime Minister on behalf of veterans' charity Poppyscotland.
Private Wayne Hardy, 23, from Methil, Fife, handed over the shirt on the doorstep of No 10 to Gordon Brown, who is a follower of the First Division team.
Raith Rovers and rival Dunfermline will be playing in the Fife derby on Poppy Saturday (7 Nov) and will both be wearing the famous red emblem on their shirts.
Poppyscotland is working with football clubs in Scotland to generate support for the November campaign. Last year all the Scottish Premier League Clubs wore the poppy on their shirts over Remembrance weekend and this year Poppyscotland hopes that some of the smaller clubs will follow suit.
Heroes & Heroines - Soldiers & School Pupils Mark National Poetry Day
Soldiers from Edinburgh today joined pupils at Tynecastle High School, to create poetry in remembrance of one of the school's most famous former teachers, Wilfred Owen, the First World War poet, who taught at the school.
Owen, widely regarded as one of the nation's finest war poets, taught English literature at the school as part of his rehabilitation from shell shock at Craiglockart War Hospital, and the pupils from S5 and S6 learnt about his work as part of a series of activities to mark National Poetry Day.
This year's theme is Heroes and Heroines and fittingly the class was joined by three serving soldiers, two from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and one from the 40th Artillery Regiment. The pupils had the opportunity to interview the soldiers about their recent experiences of conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan, in order to inspire modern day war poetry.
Work produced will be entered into the Poppy Poetry competition, which is being run by Poppyscotland.
Hibs & Hearts On Side to Help Appeal
Players from Hibernian Football Club and Heart of Midlothian Football Club kick-started the Scottish Poppy Appeal by helping to load the iconic red paper poppies into vehicles for delivery the length and breadth of Scotland.
Thomas Flynn and Lee Currie from Hibs and Jonathan Stewart from Hearts joined the 37 veterans with disabilities at Lady Haig's Poppy Factory who hand-assemble over five million poppies for the annual Scottish Poppy Appeal in November.
Thomas Flynn explained why they were helping out: "Servicemen and women in Afghanistan put their lives on the line every day and when they return home some of them need support. Money raised from the Appeal will provide them with the help they need."
Launch of 2010 Poppyscotland Hearts & Heroes Challenge
Rugby players and Armed Forces heroes helped to officially launch the 2010 Poppyscotland Hearts & Heroes Challenge. The 12-hour challenge will take place over a 29-mile section of the Southern Upland Way in the Scottish Borders on Saturday 15 May 2010, raising money for Poppyscotland and rugby charity Hearts & Balls.
Simon Cross, Edinburgh Rugby club captain, whose family has a long history of military service and Rory Hutton, Scotland 7s Internationalist and National Academy player, were joined by soldiers from 2 SCOTS at Murrayfield to call for teams to take part in the 29-mile walking or running challenge across the Southern Upland Way.
Simon Cross, event ambassador, said: "This is going to be a fantastic event as it suits a range of abilities. I hope that lots of rugby teams will sign up and raise as much sponsorship money as possible for these excellent charities. It is also a great team-building event, with some friendly competition to get everyone involved and motivated."
To find out more or register visit www.heartsandheroes.co.uk
New school materials to help children learn about veterans
Poppyscotland and Learning and Teaching Scotland today (14 September) launched the second phase of a series of internet-based materials to revolutionise the way pupils learn about veterans, remembrance and conflict. Following the success in 2008 of Sowing the Poppy seed, new materials have been added for children aged three to eight years old and youth groups, including a contemporary film for younger children, in which 'the Poppy' is interviewed as part of a chat show.
There is also a national poetry competition for school pupils, where children are asked to take inspiration from the work of acclaimed war photographer, Robert Wilson. The thought-provoking images were taken by in Iraq and Afghanistan and will act as a stimulus for the aspiring poets.
Pupils from Hermitage Park Primary and James Gillespie High attended the launch at the Scottish Poetry Library in Edinburgh, where they met renowned Army poet, Lieutenant Colonel J B Brown, Commanding Officer 7 Royal Logistics Corps. JB has served in many operational tours, including Northern Ireland and Iraq, and was featured in the Sunday Times in 2008 as one of a new generation of 'soldier-poets.'
Poppyscotland Chief Executive, Ian McGregor, said: "The response from schools across Scotland last year was extremely positive and we are delighted to be expanding on the project this year. It is vital that young people know about conflicts, remembrance and the role of veterans in their communities. The additional materials and the poetry competition will enable pupils to learn in a way that is both creative and engaging."
Sowing the Poppy seed can be downloaded from our education pages.
Poppyscotland and Stagecoach join forces to provide free travel to remembrance ceremonies
Poppyscotland and transport group Stagecoach are offering free travel for veterans attending Remembrance Day ceremonies in London, Edinburgh and Glasgow. The megabus.com service will be available to all ex-Servicemen and women (and their families) living in Scotland.
The free travel offer to London, Edinburgh and Glasgow is available on megabus.com journeys from Aberdeen, Aviemore, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverkeithing, Inverness, Kinross, Perth, Pitlochry and Stirling.
Veterans wishing to access the service should call 0131 550 1557. They will be required to provide their Service details and confirm the megabus.com service they wish to use. Timetable information is available on the megabus website, or by calling 08705 505050.
For more info visit our Media page.
Growing the Poppy in Scotland TV advert
We are running a two-week advertising campaign on STV in order to recruit more volunteers for the 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal. Last year’s ad was extremely successful and saw over 80 new volunteers recruited.
Download the advert (MOV 5.31mb).
Year two of sowing the Poppy seed - Poppyscotland’s education project
Poppyscotland and Learning and Teaching Scotland are launching the second phase of a series of educational materials to revolutionise the way young people learn about the veterans, remembrance and conflict.
Following the success of the first phase in 2008, Poppyscotland is growing its education project this year, with materials available for younger children and youth groups across Scotland. There is a number of exciting developments including a schools poetry competition, new planning documents, challenges, posters, poppy seeds and teachers’ notes.
There is also an exciting new film for younger children that will take the form of a chat show, with the child presenter interviewing the Poppy. In addition, there will be additional archive footage and subtitles for all films. All the materials reflect the Curriculum for Excellence and include activity guides and research activities to support teachers.
To find out more visit Poppyscotland's Education Project.
Poppyscotland supports blind golfer
Poppyscotland is supporting blind veteran Mike Mayo as he competes in blind and visually impaired golfing events. Events include the Blind Golf Open and the Auld Enemy Cup.
Mike, who lives in Lesmahagow, is a veteran of the Royal Navy and served in Northern Ireland before being registered blind after suffering from Macular Degeneration. Mike and his caddy Bill will be wearing the poppy on their shirts during the events.
Mike said: "I am very grateful to Poppyscotland for their kind assistance. I will do my very best to make them proud and I will certainly be wearing the Poppy logo with pride."
Former manager Craig Brown joins forces to launch Retro Scotland Poppy Shirts
Former Scotland manager Craig Brown joined soldiers from the Royal Regiment of Scotland recruiting support team in Glasgow to launch retro poppy-branded football shirts. The two shirts, from 1967 and 1978, have been emblazoned with the Scottish poppy to raise money for Poppyscotland.
Produced by Subside Sports the shirts are being launched to coincide with Scotland’s matches with Macedonia and Holland. They are on sale for £34.99 each, with £5 from each sale going to Poppyscotland.
Craig Brown said: "Our Servicemen and women do a great job, facing many dangers and, sadly, some make the ultimate sacrifice. Many more come home with physical and emotional scars and Poppyscotland is there to support them. These shirts will allow football fans to show their support for Scotland’s veterans."
Click here to order your shirt from Subside Sports.
New Chief Executive joins Poppyscotland
Poppyscotland is pleased to announce the arrival of its new Chief Executive, Ian McGregor, who joined the organisation on 3 August.
Ian McGregor is an RAF veteran who formerly held the post of Bursar of The Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools. Ian, who also previously worked in London and Australia, is originally from Glasgow and graduated from Oxford University.
Ian McGregor said: "I am delighted and excited about my role as Chief Executive of Poppyscotland and OA Scotland. Poppyscotland is an iconic organisation and I look forward to having the opportunity to once again work with and for the Services' community."
Earl Haig passes away aged 91
Poppyscotland is extremely sad to hear of the passing of Earl Haig, the son of our founder, Field Marshal Haig, who died today (Friday 10 July) at his home in Bemersyde, aged 91.
Earl Haig's dedication to the ex-Service community over the years, in particular to those organisations founded by his father, was outstanding. He always took a very keen interest in the work of Poppyscotland and we have been very fortunate to have had his support. Our deepest sympathy goes to Lady Haig and the family.
Poppyscotland director is TFN Charity Champion
Poppyscotland director Major David Noble has won the TFN Scottish Charity Champion Award for his outstanding contribution to veterans' services for nearly 20 years.
The TFN (Third Force News) Scottish Charity Awards, run by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), were presented by Alex Neil MSP, Minister for Housing and Communities, on Thursday 11 June.
On winning Major Noble said: "I am enormously grateful to the Third Force News. This award gives us opportunity to reflect on the work performed by our Servicemen and women. Fit and healthy young men and women all too often find themselves suffering physical and mental wounds as a result of their service and many find the transition to civilian life confusing and difficult after the close knit and supportive society they experienced in the Services.
"Poppyscotland not only supports these individuals but also undertakes research on behalf of all veterans and makes grants where they are most needed to those charities that provide the specialist support and services to vulnerable veterans of all ages."
SAMH and Poppyscotland host international conference on mental health
Poppyscotland and SAMH, Scotland's leading mental health charity, hosted a conference at Our Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh, on 27 May to raise awareness of the mental health problems faced by veterans in Scotland.
Entitled: Uncharted Territory - the Mental Well-being of Scotland's Veterans, the event was the first of its kind and was sponsored by the Scottish Government. At the event, Alex Neil MSP launched 'Life Force', a guide for those who come into contact with veterans through their work.
The aim of the conference was to raise awareness, share expertise and help develop services for veterans and their families throughout Scotland. The organisations involved highlighted the range of complex psychological issues that a number of ex-Servicemen and women face after returning from the Forces. Speakers also gave guidance on the kind of support and mental health care that these veterans require. Two veterans, Steve Beedie and William Sutherland, also addressed the conference and shared their own experiences of mental health problems.
To read more see our Media page
Pastures New for Poppyscotland CEO
Poppyscotland's CEO Jim Panton is leaving after three-and-half years to take up the post of Chief Executive Officer at veterans' charity Erskine.
Jim said: "Being Chief Executive of Poppyscotland has been a great honour for me and I have been fortunate to work with some amazing people and inspiring veterans."
Poppyscotland wishes Jim all the very best and looks forward to welcoming Ian McGregor, who will join us as CEO in August.
Show Your Support
You can show your support for the Scottish Poppy Appeal by purchasing an official 2009 Scotland football shirt. Produced by Subsides Sports, both the home and away shirts are emblazoned with the famous Scottish poppy and £5 from each shirt sold will be donated to Poppyscotland.
To buy your shirt and show your support visit Subside Sports
Groundbreaking Research on Employment
A study commissioned by Poppyscotland has found that finding employment is more difficult for veterans in Scotland than for their counterparts in England. The research into the needs of veterans with disabilities and vulnerabilities found that veterans in Scotland are more prone to a number of difficulties which can seriously affect their ability to find employment, leaving them less likely to find work than fellow veterans living outside of Scotland and non-veterans.
The research includes a survey of ex-Service personnel throughout the UK. Whilst the majority of veterans eventually settle into civilian life with little or no difficulty, 28,000 ex-Servicemen and women across Scotland are known to be out of work. It finds that life outside the Forces can be a series of hurdles and challenges that can lead to social isolation, unemployment and even homelessness.
The report contains makes a number of recommendations on how to improve employability services for vulnerable and disabled veterans, providing mainstream and veterans’ organisations with the evidence and knowledge they need to respond more effectively to the needs of this group.
Read the report here (PDF 1233kb)
Read the Executive summary here (PDF 158kb)
2008 Scottish Poppy Appeal
We are delighted to announce that the 2008 Scottish Poppy Appeal was a record-breaking success, exceeding the ambitious target of £2 million and achieving an increase of 16% on the 2007 total. An impressive £2,041,202 was raised.
The announcement was made at the famous Glasshouse Hotel in Edinburgh and was followed by an event at Vue Cinema in the nearby Omni Centre. Brigadier Andrew Mackay CBE, Commander of 52 Brigade in Helmand Province, Afghanistan from October 2007 to May 2008, was joined by 2nd Lieutenant Alexander 'Beatie' Barclay MC, who was injured and awarded the Military Cross for bravery in Afghanistan. Brigadier Mackay unveiled the total to a group of Poppyscotland supporters and veterans.
Jim Panton, Chief Executive of Poppyscotland said: "This amazing result sends a clear message to veterans and their families that the people in Scotland are behind them and want to ensure that they get the help they deserve.
"We are especially proud of this achievement in a year that was set to be very challenging due to the economic climate. Thank you to everyone who helped make the Appeal such a success."
Poppyscotland and PSYBT help get veterans new career off the ground
Poppyscotland and the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) have helped make two young veterans’ career dreams come true.
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| Alasdair Macnair with Alison Gee from PSYBT, left, and Leigh Howieson from Poppyscotland |
Alasdair Macnair, 25, from Stirling, who saw active service in Iraq with the Royal Engineers, was awarded a small business loan to help him launch his chosen career as a forestry contractor.
Andrew Crawford, also 25, from Greenock, served in the RAF from 2001 to 2006 and was awarded a loan to set himself up as a self-employed photographer and DJ.
The loans were awarded on the same day as part of a new initiative, to help ex-Service men and women get their business ideas off the ground in a time of global financial downturn. Poppyscotland and PSYBT are working in partnership to support young veterans in Scotland.
Read the full media release.
Uncharted Territory – Poppyscotland in partnership with SAMH
We are delighted to announce we are working in partnership with SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) on their 2009 conference – Uncharted Territory, the mental well-being of Scotland’s veterans. It will take place on 27th May 2009 at Our Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh.
Poppyscotland and SAMH recognise that as Service men and women return home to their families and communities, they face many challenges that can potentially impact on their mental health and well-being.
This event will focus on the development of services for returning veterans and their families and will give service providers evidence-based information and approaches that can help veterans and their families build resiliency to prevent and to treat mental health disorders (including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders), substance abuse disorders, suicide, and/or co-occurring disorders.
To find out more visit www.samh.org.uk/unchartedterritory
Edinburgh Rugby Pair join Armed Forces to kick off Hearts & Heroes Challenge
Edinburgh Rugby club captain Simon Cross and prop Ryan Grant swapped oval balls for running shoes in order to launch the Poppyscotland Hearts & Heroes Challenge.
Flanker Cross, who has a military background spanning four generations, and former Royal Signaller Grant, were joined by members of 61 (City of Edinburgh) Signal Squadron at Murrayfield.
Simon Cross said: "I'm giving the Poppyscotland Hearts & Heroes Challenge my full backing and I would encourage people to form teams and participate in the event because it is such a worthy cause.
"I don't think people realise how much soldiers give for their country. Anything to do with injured servicemen and people coming back from war zones is something very close to my heart. I've experienced family members being at war and it is a rough time, so I think, as a nation, we should do everything we can to help."
Poppyscotland and Travel2Give
We are delighted to announce we have become a partner charity in the Travel2Give Programme. Travel2Give is a Scottish based travel company that not only offers competitively priced holidays but also gives back to the community every time a trip is booked. From UK breaks and budget holidays to the Far East and 5 star luxury, Travel2Give has your summer escape waiting for you.
All you need to do is choose your holiday, tell Travel2Give that your chosen charity is Poppyscotland when you book and Travel2Give will donate a percentage of your holiday fee to us.
Click here to find out more.
Poppyscotland Ambassador switches on Christmas Lights
Hearts player and Poppyscotland Ambassador Michael Stewart, accompanied by Corporal George Smith and Lance Corporal Paul Rafferty from the Royal Scots Borderers, switched on the Christmas lights at Edinburgh’s £100 million entertainment venue Omni on Monday 24 November.
Poppyscotland was chosen to switch on the lights following the success of its giant pop-out poppy display (see below)
Scotland shows it cares with giant poppy display
A giant display of poppies is on display in Edinburgh’s Omni Centre as part of a campaign to show that Scotland cares about veterans and their families.
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| Korean veteran Eric Gurr, from Poppyscotland’s TV and poster advertising campaign, visits the Omni Centre to read some of the messages |
Poppyscotland has been overwhelmed by the response to a letter sent to 45,000 potential donors, asking them to return a ‘pop-out’ poppy with messages of remembrance, respect or support for the Armed Forces, veterans or loved ones.
Poppyscotland expects to receive 6,000 poppies and donations of £50,000 from the mailing.
SPL backs Appeal with Poppy Day Fixtures
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| SPL Executive Chairman Lex Gold, with Michael Stewart, Hearts player and Poppyscotland ambassador, Dean Holden from Falkirk FC, and school pupils from Tynecastle High School wearing the SPL clubs’ strips. |
Clubs are also supporting the Appeal by allowing collectors at their grounds, and selling or auctioning the special poppy shirts to raise money for charity.
Thanksgiving Service
On Monday 27 October a thanksgiving service was held at the Church of the Holy Rude in Stirling, to honour the 37 Scottish Servicemen who lost their lives in Afghanistan and Iraq. Organised by the families of the men, the service was attended by over 400 people.
Mrs Mary McCue, whose son, Lance Corporal James McCue, who died in Iraq in 2003, read a statement on behalf of the families: “Today’s service was a fitting tribute and celebration of the lives of those we have lost in Iraq and Afghanistan. We would like to thank all of those involved in the organisation of the service and to all those who have expressed their support.
“It is vital that there are opportunities like this for people to come together to commemorate the lives and the sacrifices made by our Servicemen and women and to make sure they are never forgotten.”
National Launch
The national launch of the 2008 Scottish Poppy Appeal took place at Stirling Castle on the evening of Monday 27 October.
The First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond MSP, welcomed the 400 guests – among them supporters of the Appeal and 200 family members who have lost loved ones in Iraq and Afghanistan.
BBC newsreader Sally McNair compered the event, which saw the Flanders Poppy presented to the First Minister by Bob and Jem Wright, parents of Corporal Mark Wright, on behalf of the families who attended a thanksgiving service earlier that day. The Flanders Poppy was parachuted into Stirling and presented to the families immediately before the service. A flypast by 43 Fighter Squadron RAF also took place in commemoration.
To mark the occasion Stirling Castle was lit up in poppy red, framed by a dramatic saltire light display in the sky. The Royal Marine Band also made a rare and welcome performance on the night.
New TV advertising campaign
Poppyscotland has launched a new TV advertising campaign to encourage support for the 2008 Scottish Poppy Appeal. The adverts focus on three areas of our key activities – supporting elderly veterans, injured veterans and the childrens and dependants of those who have served. They feature Ben Shaw, 25, who was blinded in Iraq, and Eric Gurr, 81, who fought in Korea. The adverts run for two weeks from 24 October.
Watch the advert here (WMV 1,301kb)
Lorraine Kelly launches 2008 Appeal
The 2008 Appeal was launched in Dundee on 23 October by Poppyscotland ambassador Lorraine Kelly. The popular TV personality presented a poppy to Ben Shaw, a young veteran blinded in Iraq and Eric Gurr, a veteran of the Korean War.
Lorraine said: “Meeting Ben and Eric has been truly inspirational and has really brought home to me the fact that veterans come in all ages and from all walks of life. Sadly, there are thousands of others like them in Scotland who depend on the assistance they receive from organisations like Poppyscotland.I really hope that everyone in Scotland will show they care by getting behind the Appeal and by wearing their poppies with pride!”
To read the full story visit our Media page
Flanders Poppy presentation to Borders Primary School
On Thursday 23 October Earl Haig, son of Field Marshal Earl Haig, presented the Flanders Poppy to five school pupils from Duns Primary School.
Teacher Sandra Brodie said: “"The pupils of Duns Primary are delighted to be involved in helping Poppyscotland. It is a great honour for this small group of children to be asked to represent their class here today in collecting this special poppy from Earl Haig. The rest of the class are very excited to be involved in the next part of the journey from Duns to Edinburgh on Monday."
The school will visit the Poppy Factory on Monday 27 October, taking the Flanders Poppy with them for onward journey to Stirling, where it will be spectacularly parachuted into the esplanade of Stirling Castle, presented to families attending a thanksgiving service in honour of their relatives killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. The families will then present it to the First Minister at the launch of the 2008 Scottish Poppy Appeal.
Veterans Present PM with Scottish Poppy
On Monday 20 October Poppyscotland presented Prime Minister Gordon Brown with a Scottish poppy at number 10 Downing Street.
The poppy was presented to the Prime Minister by veterans Jimmy Skinner and Brian Bryson, who work at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh. Read more.
Win a Christmas Hamper in Poppyscotland’s Survey and free Prize Draw
Poppyscotland has commissioned a new piece of research to find out what help ex-Forces personnel need to find work after their time in the military – and how that help can be best provided. The research report will go to the Government, the Forces, and to all other veterans’ organisations.
We are keen for as many veterans as possible to complete a short survey about their experiences of looking for and getting a job outside the forces – and in particular about any hurdles veterans have had to overcome.
Everyone who completes the survey will have their name entered into a prize draw – with the winner receiving a Christmas Hamper worth £100!
Just click here to access the survey.
Thanksgiving Service to Honour Iraq and Afghanistan Heroes
Families of Scottish Servicemen who have lost their lives in the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan are organising a Thanksgiving Service in their honour and are offering places at the Service to members of the public. The Service will be held in the Church of the Holy Rude, Stirling, on the afternoon of Monday 27th October.
Tribute will be paid to the sacrifice made by Servicemen and women at an inter-denominational service, conducted by the Reverends Ian Paterson and James Gibson.
Seats will be extremely limited and will be issued on a first come, first served basis, so those wishing to attend should contact Poppyscotland on 0131 550 1568 to request a place.
Sowing the Poppy Seed
Poppyscotland has launched a new series of educational materials that will revolutionise the way pupils learn about veterans. Entitled, ‘Sowing the Poppy seed’, the materials will be used in Scottish schools to educate pupils about the importance of Remembrance and the issues that affect veterans in their communities today. More information is available on our media page.
Words Worth Reading: Impressions and Recollections from the life of a Scottish Poet
A Scottish artist and poet, Alexander Douglas Izatt, has produced a collection of poetry, on sale for £5. Proceeds from the sale of the book will be kindly donated to Poppyscotland. To order please contact the author at howizatt@hotmail.com.
Awards for Volunteers
Poppyscotland is delighted to announce a new Awards scheme for our volunteers.
People who currently volunteer for Poppyscotland are eligible and corporate organisations, schools and groups that show consistent support to Poppyscotland will also be able to receive a certificate of appreciation.
Visit the Volunteer Downloads page for more information.
Scottish Poppy Appeal Raises Record Total
The 2007 Scottish Poppy Appeal has raised a record £1,760,880 and we extend our grateful thanks to all who supported the event, by buying a poppy or by helping with local collections.
The announcement was made on 23 April in George Square, Glasgow.
Poppyscotland Chief Executive Jim Panton said: “We are extremely proud of this achievement and we look forward to seeing the money go to veterans and their dependants to help make their lives easier.
“However, we must attract more volunteers from younger generations to help us raise money to meet the welfare needs of Scotland’s veterans of the future. Sadly, as a result of recent conflicts, many of those who serve today will require specialist support in the future, so we are really only seeing the tip of the iceberg at this stage.”
Helping to make the announcement were Brigadier John Brown, six-year-old Lucy Smith from Annan, who is one of our youngest supporters, Jennifer Young and Lewis Gibson from Williamwood High, and cadets from F Platoon Maryhill RHF.
Read the press release here.
Mat’s Tribute: watch the video
Poppyscotland has recently launched a promotional DVD - Mat’s Tribute, named in honour of its producer. Mat Durham is a former soldier and, at 22 years old, has seen three operational tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
After returning from his third tour, he began creating remembrance videos as a mark of respect for his fallen comrades.
Poppyscotland’s Chief Executive Jim Panton came across a few video clips about Iraq and Afghanistan on the Internet and was struck by the strength and emotion of a few, all made by the same person, Mat Durham.
Jim Panton said: “I was intrigued to learn about Mat’s experiences on his three operational tours. I was particularly struck by his account of a drawn-out engagement with the enemy on his very last day in theatre, which limited his time to pack and catch his flight home and resulted in him arriving in ‘civvy steet’ 24 hours later, still wearing his combat clothing.”
The video focuses on a dramatic account of a courageous rescue mission by Cpl Mark Wright of Edinburgh, who was killed last year in Afghanistan, and who was posthumously awarded the George Cross.
Mat said: "I was really pleased to make this video. Poppyscotland does a great job in helping veterans and their families and they are to be commended. I wish them all the best for another record year."
Mat now runs Worcester web design company, Skyblu.
StartHere
Poppyscotland has linked up with StartHere, an information service that signposts people in need of advice and support to organisations across Scotland. The service covers a wide variety of issues, including health, care, families, education, employment, benefits, wellbeing and welfare rights.
StartHere - http://www.starthere.info/rblweb
Scottish Rocks Support Poppyscotland
Poppyscotland was delighted to be involved with the Scottish Rocks basketball team for their home game against the Everton Tigers on Sunday 21 October at the Braehead Arena, Glasgow, in support of the 2007 Appeal.
As a gesture to honour the Armed Forces a special promotional code was created for Service and ex-Service men, women and their families, offering a discounted rate.
AGM
Poppyscotland’s AGM took place on 4 October at the MacRobert Theatre in Stirling. Highlights included an update on Poppyscotland’s exciting and expanding activities over the past year and a presentation on a daring helicopter rescue mission in Afghanistan.
We also held our annual President’s Awards ceremony, whereby volunteers who have given outstanding support to Poppyscotland are honoured.
To find out more about the Scottish Poppy Appeal click here
CAB project
Poppyscotland has launched a year-long advice project with the Glasgow Consortium of Citizens Advice Bureaux in order to learn more about and address the advice needs of veterans in the city.
A helpline has been created and will be run by Citizens Advice Direct to provide first-line advice. The helpline number is 0845 231 0300.