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Date Published: 12/10/2021
ARCHIVED - Benidorm will host official Poppy Appeal Launch 2021: October 16
This year’s Poppy Appeal Launch in District North Spain will take place in the Marina Baixa resort, Alicante province
After being forced to stage a reduced ceremony behind closed doors last October, due to the pandemic, the Royal British Legion's north district branch is "delighted" to be able to launch this year's Poppy Appeal "in the format of previous years".
The official launch will take place in the popular coastal resort of Benidorm on Saturday, October 16, with a Parade of Standards from both Royal British Legion’s branches in Spain and other ex-service associations.
The Standards will set off from Calle Castellon at midday and move along the Paseo de Levante, led once again by the Torrevieja Pipes and Drums.
Meanwhile, The Royal British Legion Concert Band will entertain crowds awaiting their arrival and the main ceremony at Rincon de Loix, which is expected to take place at 12.15pm.
After the ceremony, which will be attended by the Mayor of Benidorm, Toni Perez, National Vice Chairman of The Royal British Legion, Joe Falzon, and Captain Ian Clarke RN, British Defence Attaché, Madrid, there will be a buffet lunch at the Marina Hotel to which all spectators are invited at a cost of 15 euros, excluding drinks.
Further details can be found at www.countries.britishlegion.org.uk and on the Facebook page.
"While our Branches work tirelessly throughout the year to raise much-needed funds, the vast majority of the money we raise comes from the Poppy Appeal. Last year, we managed to raise an amazing 75,000 euros despite the Covid lockdown," explained the RBL, adding: "This formed an important part of the almost 641,000 euros raised overseas overall, and more importantly, this money stays here in Spain to support local beneficiaries’ needs."
In the last six months, RBL in Spain has provided support in more than 200 cases. In some instances, a telephone buddy or home visitor has been arranged; and in others’, the legion ensured the needs were met through referrals to the local Spanish Social Services and other organisations and charities, known as 'signposting'.
"Other people need more concrete support in terms of financial help, sometimes ongoing in the more complex cases. In the three months to the start of September alone, we provided financial aid in excess of 23,500 euros, covering everything from Immediate Hardship Grants, to assisting with utility bills and rent, mobility and hearing aids, and building works," added RBL.
Image: Royal British Legion
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