Shildon’s branch of The Royal British Legion officially launched their annual poppy appeal this weekend with two well attended events. Held at Shildon Railway Institute, the fundraising started with a packed race night.
Horses were bought and then bets were placed before sealed CDs were opened and shown on a big screen to the roars and cheers of the awaiting crowd. The eight races were diligently compared by Dave Reynolds who also later became the auctioneer.
Halfway through the races the auction started, where a beautiful hand painted watercolour and an intricate diamond painting of poppies especially created for the night, were both won by Lliam Johnson.
A surprise impromptu buffet was provided free of charge by local businessman Mohammed from The Red Chilli, on one of his busiest nights of the week.
Mohammed said: “I always donate to the Royal British Legion like I did at the camp out, as I think it’s an important charity to support.“
The night raised just short of £700 with the first poppy being bought by Mr David Toleman which lead to a whole host of poppies being purchased and proudly displayed.
Sunday’s Fun Day saw families return to the Institute where children spent the afternoon playing on the bouncy castle and dancing in the disco before taking part in various games – all free of charge.
Chairman Andy Haines told the Crier: “I can’t thank the community enough for such a brilliant turnout at the start of this year’s poppy appeal.
“Now all I can ask is that we continue this good work by asking everyone to buy a poppy and attend the parade where we remember our service personnel, both past and present.
“Although set up after the first world war, The Royal British Legion still helps many ex-service men and women today and here at Shildon we always welcome more people at our meeting, held here on the second Tuesday of each month.
“My thanks also go to the Shildon Railway Institute for allowing us to host these events this weekend and Mohammed from The Red Chilli for bringing our race goers some free delicious Indian food.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
