A WAR widow and four veterans of the Second World War were presented with the first poppies of the year at the launch of Kent’s 2006 Poppy Appeal.

Military commanders and civic leaders from across the county attended the launch, which was hosted by Kent County Council chairman Fred Wood-Brignall at County Hall, Maidstone.

Geoff Simpson, county field officer for the Royal British Legion, said: “Events in Iraq and Afghanistan have shown us that 85 years after the first Poppy Day – which was held on November 11, 1921, to help soldiers returning from the First World War – the cost of war remains the same.

“Every year, thousands of serving and ex-service people and their families who have fallen on hard times approach the legion for help.”

Poppy sellers will be out on the streets of Kent again this year, supporting the Royal British Legion’s work for ex-servicemen, women and their families.

Steve Woolford, county vice chairman, said: “November sees the Royal British Legion move into top gear; it is all systems go for the Poppy Appeal.

“Although members work tirelessly throughout the year, all efforts are brought into play for this crucial fortnight, when a vast amount of the yearly total is raised.”

Last year the appeal raised an impressive £826,000 in Kent, much of which went to Poppy Support, the legion’s range of welfare services for those who have served or continue to serve in the British armed forces.

As in previous years, it is hoped that as well as buying poppies, millions of people across the nation will fall silent for Remembrance Day, at 11am, on Saturday, November 11, for two minutes to remember those who fought and are still fighting.

To get involved with the poppy appeal, as a collector or organiser, call 0800 0855924 or 01622 717088, visit www.poppy.org or e-mail poppypeople@britishlegion.org.uk