SINCE 1921 the good people of Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley have supported The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal for their respective towns’ branches.

We are currently preparing for next year’s appeal, and I am sure the support we have had over the past century will continue, as the need for help for our servicemen and women, veterans and their families continues.

First World War veterans are no longer with us and the number of living Second World War veterans is decreasing each year, but since 1945 there has only been one year in which someone in the armed forces hasn’t been killed in action.

It is vital that we continue to support our veterans in their time of need as the average age of men and women seeking help has gone down to 25.

I know our townsfolk are among the best in the land and will support our appeal.

Mr JS Robinson

Royal British Legion Tyldesley branch secretary