Poppy appeal hits the streets of the Highlands; Poppyscotland hailed for work with veterans
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COLLECTIONS are under way across the Highlands after the local launch of the annual poppy appeal.
Poppyscotland representatives presented the charity’s new projects and celebrated the success of its 2018 campaign, which was the most successful ever and raised in excess of £3 million pounds.
The Highland capital's Provost Helen Carmichael welcomed Poppyscotland representatives and thanked them for their work in the community.
She said: “We are proud of the collaboration with Poppyscotland – the amount of money that they managed to raise to offer vital services to our veterans is amazing.”
Its president, Alistair Irwin, said he was grateful to Highland Council for its support and particularly for its commitment in the new housing guide published by Poppyscotland.
Head of fundraising Gordon Michie said: “We had our most successful year in 2018, and we have seen a new-found zeal to support us.
“There is a great connection between Poppyscotland and Inverness: people are willing to donate also because the effects of fundraising feel more tangible, people know each other and may know who is in need of our services.
“We are engaging local businesses as well, and it can be easier to do so in a city like Inverness where there is a strong network in the community.”
Area organiser for Inverness and Ardersier Roddy Wood received the Poppyscotland President’s award after managing to raise £320,000 in six years at the Inverness Welfare Centre, which opened in 2013 and has dealt with 2686 general inquiries, 1700 inquiries for welfare information and support, and supported on a one-on-one case management basis 112 people in 2018.
After the launch the ceremony moved to Cavell Gardens for the opening of the Garden of Remembrance with a new bench being donated by Poppyscotland veterans to the city of Inverness.
