THE team behind this year’s Poppy Appeal in Fordingbridge is now taking requests from local businesses and organisations.

Managing director of Fordingbridge-based Padua Communications, Nicky Rudd, took over the running of the Poppy Appeal in the town last year after she saw a post on social media calling for help after the previous coordinator decided to step down.

Padua Communications now serves as the main point of contact for local organisations wishing to order wreaths and manages the distribution and collection of poppy tins and boxes in the lead-up to Remembrance Day.

It is currently reviewing past orders and preparing for this year’s appeal.

Nicky said: “This is the second year we have been the coordinators, of which my grandad, who was a Royal Marine, would have been extremely proud.

READ MORE: Fordingbridge business, Padua Communications, takes on town’s Poppy Appeal coordination

READ MORE: Terry Pratchett’s Discworld illustrator from Fordingbridge talks about his work and inspirations

“If you are a business, organisation, church, or association that would like some poppies and a collection tin for the October period, please get in touch ASAP.

“Although the Poppy Appeal runs for the fortnight up to Remembrance Day, the order for poppies, tins, pins and other items starts now.

“We are beginning to collate what we ordered last year and would like to hear from the local community if there are any specific requests. Please email nicky@paduacommunications.com with your requests.”

Claire Smith, Poppy Appeal manager for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, said: “Since October 2024, South Hampshire and Isle of Wight (of which Fordingbridge is part) have raised over one million in this financial year, with events still taking place and money still to bank.

“Looking at figures across the country, this region is the first to raise this sum of money as a split county. This is outstanding!”

The Royal British Legion (RBL) supports members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans, and their families.

The Poppy Appeal is the RBL’s largest annual fundraising campaign, with all proceeds going directly to support the Armed Forces community in areas such as financial assistance, employment, housing, mobility, and mental health.