"We shall not fail, nor falter; we shall not weaken or tire".

The words of Winston Churchill adorning the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal banner at the Lord Mayor's Mansion House were today a timely reminder to all of us of the need to remember those who have died and who continue to die in service of our country.

Launching the North & East Yorkshire Poppy Appeal in the opulent green and gilt surrounds of the Estate Room, the Lord Mayor of York, Coun Janet Looker, called for alternatives to war to be sought wherever possible.

She said: "War is a very blunt instrument for making peace, but we should not forget that it comes at a very high price. We should not cease with our hearts, mind and spirits to look for alternative ways to deal with the difficulties and troubles of this world. War is a terrible thing and I do not forget."

The Sheriff of York, Bob Scrase said: "The important thing is that the money that is raised is to help those who have made those sacrifices for our sakes." One such man who risked his life for his country is 78-year-old Arthur Barton, known as Dick, who is vice chairman and standard bearer of the Fulford & District branch of the Royal British Legion.

Wearing six medals from service in France, Germany and Kenya with the Hampshire Regiment, Mr Barton expressed his concerns over the current situation in Iraq.

"A lot of men died during the world wars and they must not be forgotten. But of course people have been dying in wars ever since. And my sympathies are with the men of the Black Watch going to the Sunni Triangle in Iraq," he said.

Poppies go on sale today and churches across Britain are preparing special commemorative services for Remembrance Sunday, on November 14.

Updated: 09:44 Saturday, October 30, 2004