WE CAN’T forget: That was the message last Thursday lunchtime as the Petersfield branch of the Royal British Legion got its annual Poppy Appeal underway.

The 2023 appeal was officially launched at midday in The Square with town crier Faye Thompson getting the attention of shoppers.

Town mayor Cllr JC Cressey wanted to buy the first poppy but was narrowly beaten to it by a keen shopper about five minutes before the proclamation.

“We’re remembering two World wars and a lot of other skirmishes since then,” said David Lloyd, branch secretary.

“The people that we support aren’t just in Petersfield but all over the world and it’s not just ex-servicemen or women either. We’re hoping the people of Petersfield will give very generously.”

Volunteer-run stalls will be set up at popular locations around the town over the next week while cash isn’t necessary as contactless donations can be made.