British Legion has launched its annual Poppy Appeal and, on behalf of the citizens of York, I am honoured to support this most worthy cause.

Last year the Poppy Appeal raised in excess of £40,000 in the York area and £20 million nationally with the money being spent on welfare schemes, benevolent services, resettlement and work for the disabled.

The amount raised reflects the hard work that is done by a large number of voluntary organisers and collectors who raise the bulk of this money. Over the years the public and businesses in York have given generously to the appeal. I do hope that you will continue to give it the support it so rightly deserves.

The Red Poppy Appeal Organiser for York is Joe Munday, who is anxious to recruit new collectors, particularly for street collections which began this week and continue tomorrow, Friday and Saturday.

If you are able to give a little of your time to help with the Poppy Appeal, please contact Mr Munday at the appeal office, telephone 07833 770563. He is there from 10.00am to 4.00pm, Monday to Friday.

At this time of international tension, it is especially important that we all remember those who in the past and at present, have and do put their lives at risk for us all.

This Remembrance Sunday we shall be at the City Cenotaph, Memorial Gardens, at the top of Leeman Road for the Annual Service, beginning at 11am. This is a public service and, as in previous years, I hope it will be well supported.

Coun David Horton,

Lord Mayor of York,

Mansion House, York.

Updated: 13:24 Wednesday, November 06, 2002