The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal will get back to normal this year.

Last year saw changes with less poppies on sale in fewer places because of Covid restrictions.

Poppies were only on sale in pubs and shops. No supermarkets were allowed to sell them and street vendors with trays of poppies disappeared from Glossop’s streets.

The restrictions also affected the Remembrance Day Service in Norfolk Square with people asked to lay wreaths in their own time.

But this year, it’s business as usual.

Poppies will be sold by volunteers in Tesco, Marks and Spencer and Aldi.

Special boxes will be sent out to local schools for pupils to buy items such as pens and rulers.

Cllr George Wharmby organises the poppy collection in Glossop. 

He said: “It’s good to get boxes in schools as it raises awareness among young people. 

“Last year we suffered because of Covid restrictions and soon after we started selling poppies we went back into total lockdown. 

“We managed to raise £7,000 which is remarkable really, but usually around £25,000 is collected in Glossop. People’s generosity is greatly appreciated.”

Poppies go on sale on October 30 and will be available until Remembrance Sunday on November 14.

George added: “This year we are able to accept contactless payments so anyone with a card can donate. That should be very helpful in reaching our target.”

Glossop’s £25,000 goes into a national pot which normally raises £4m. The money is donated to current and former servicemen who are facing hardship.

This year though volunteers are needed to help sell poppies in local supermarkets. 

They are normally sold between 9am and 5pm, but contactless payments now mean they can be bought at any time.

If you can give up a couple of hours and are willing to volunteer please contact George on 01457 856905 or 07585 322903.

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