As part of our ongoing “In the Community” series, we’re proud to highlight the work of Lucy Garner, Senior Manager at Antony Batty Thames Valley office, whose personal connection to the armed forces has led her to support the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal. With the 2025 campaign now underway, Lucy shares what the Appeal means to her and why she volunteers.
Over a Century of Support for Our Armed Forces – The Poppy Appeal 2025
With the 2025 Poppy Appeal kicking off on Thursday 23 October, Lucy Garner tells us about her involvement with the Royal British Legion.
“Most of us recognise that the poppy is synonymous with WW1. Beautiful landscapes across western Europe and beyond were blasted, bombed and fought over for many years and it is in this environment that the poppy stood out, when not much else could grow.
In 1921 The Royal British Legion was formed, and they ordered 9 million poppies to be sold on 11 November that year and they sold out almost immediately. This first ‘Poppy Appeal’ raised over £106,000 to help veterans with housing and jobs.
Although it has been more than 100 years since the Royal British Legion held the first Poppy Appeal, the support they provide our armed forces today is as important as ever.”
A Personal Connection That Inspires Action
“I have a strong connection with the military; my grandfather, uncle, brother and partner have all served in the army, and I applied to join the army when I left school (unsuccessfully due to hearing loss).
Since school, I have had an interest in military history and 20 years ago, I went over to France and Belgium and visited many of the key battlegrounds on the western front, something which left an indelible impression on me.
5 years ago, I applied to join the Royal British Legion as a Poppy Appeal volunteer, selling poppies in my local community to help raise vital funds to support serving armed forces personnel, veterans, families, and the bereaved.
It is the least I can do, for so many that have given so much.”
The Poppy Appeal runs from 23 October 2025 through to Remembrance Sunday.
