the Royal British Legion is one of our most valued institutions. The principal role of the Legion is to provide our ex-servicemen and serving forces personnel, as well as their dependents, with financial, social and emotional support and assistance.

It also provides, for all of us, an important link between our past history and our current place in the world. Everyday we are reminded of the dangerous world in which we live.

As in past conflicts – be it the World Wars, Korea, the Falklands, the Gulf or Afghanistan – British service personnel are ever at the forefront, defending our values and our lives.

2014 is a particularly significant year as it marks the centenary of the outbreak of the Great War – the war to end wars – when soldiers from all parts of the Commonwealth and British Empire came to fight in the cause of freedom.

Since 1921 the Royal British Legion has provided support for those needing help and even today it continues to look after the welfare, the interests and the memory of past and present armed forces personnel.

The annual Poppy Appeal provides the main source of funds to keep the Legion’s welfare and benevolent schemes which help some 500,000 people each year – many of whom would not otherwise ask for help.

The Legion’s work can only continue with substantial financial support.

The annual Poppy Day Appeal is our opportunity – as individuals and communities – to recognise the sacrifices of our service personnel and to make our contribution towards an extremely worthy cause.

Please give generously and support the Poppy Appeal and the work done by the Royal British Legion. – Councillor Santokh S Chhokar, Chairman of South Bucks District Council, Councillor Mrs Lesley Clarke OBE, Chairman of Wycombe District Council