Coronation Street actor supports Rochdale’s Poppy Appeal launch

Poppy Hunt (front left) and Poppy Rigg both pupils at Bamford Academy joined Antony Cotton, Councillor McCarthy, David Forbes and council staff to launch the annual poppy appeal in Rochdale

Coronation Street star Antony Cotton joined two real life poppys, Poppy Hunt (7) and Poppy Rigg (6), both pupils at Bamford Academy, for the launch of the Royal British Legion’s annual poppy appeal in the borough.

Antony, who plays Sean Tully in the ITV1 soap, said the poppy appeal is a very worthwhile cause: "It is a real pleasure to be involved with Rochdale’s support of the Armed Forces.

"As someone who has friends currently serving with the British Army in Afghanistan I understand the importance of supporting our troops.

"Wear your poppy with pride, I know I certainly do. We will remember them."

With Remembrance Sunday approaching on 10 November, the council is encouraging residents to support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, which helps service personnel and their families in times of need.

Councillor Alan McCarthy, Lead Member for the Armed Forces at Rochdale Borough Council, said: "The council and the Royal British Legion stands shoulder to shoulder with all who serve.

"The poppy has become a symbol of remembrance and the money raised by the sale of them is used to support British servicemen and women who have made, and continue to make, sacrifices for us in order to preserve our freedom.

"I would like to encourage members of the public to make a donation for a poppy and show their support and respect.”

At the launch event, Wing Commander David Forbes, President of Rochdale’s Royal British Legion said Number One Riverside in Rochdale will shortly be used by the Legion to house a permanent display of the work they carry out and a place where members of the public to purchase gifts and make donations: “Since signing the Community Covenant last year Rochdale has been recognised nationally by the Royal British Legion for its work in supporting serving and ex members of the Armed Forces.”

Poppies can be bought at Rochdale Town Hall and from shops, supermarkets, pubs and clubs across Heywood, Middleton, Rochdale and the Pennines, or at www.britishlegion.org.uk 

“We would also like to remind residents about the services being held locally next Sunday and encourage all members of the public to attend and show their respect,” added Councillor McCarthy.

For details of services across the borough, visit:

www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/events