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The people of South Tyneside are being urged to wear their poppies with pride following the launch of this year's Poppy Appeal.

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Pat Hay helped to launch the Poppy Appeal when she bought the first poppy from the South Shields branch of the Royal British Legion.

The Mayor said: "I was delighted to help launch the local poppy appeal. Many people choose to wear a red poppy in November for Â鶹ÊÓƵ to pay tribute to the countless men and women who sacrificed so much to serve their country.

"Donations from the Poppy Appeal go a long way to providing much needed support for serving and ex-serving members of the Armed Forces community and their families.

"The Mayoress and I will be wearing our poppies with pride. We hope that the people of South Tyneside will join us in supporting this year's appeal. Every poppy counts."

The Royal British Legion provides welfare and companionship to servicemen and women, veterans and their families, from expert guidance and advice to recovery and rehabilitation. It also acts as a voice for the Armed Forces Community, ensuring that servicemen and women are honoured and respected.

Peter Boyack, President of the South Shields British Legion Club, said: "Every year, the legion calls on the nation to unite in commemorating Â鶹ÊÓƵ.

"The people of South Tyneside have always been very generous and supportive of the Poppy Appeal and for that we are extremely grateful. Contributions from the Poppy Appeal make a real difference to those in the Armed Forces community facing hardships, injuries or bereavement.

"We hope that once again local communities will support us to ensure the continuity of vital services and support for our armed services families."

Residents and visitors to South Tyneside can buy their poppies from South Shields Town Hall, Jarrow Town Hall as well as shops and supermarkets across the Borough.

The public can also support the cause by donating online at or donate by phone on 0345 845 1945. Alternatively donate £2 by texting POPPY2 to 70545, Donate £5 by texting POPPY5 to 70545, Donate £10 by texting POPPY10 to 70545. Poppy-based products such as pins and badges are also available to buy at

Â鶹ÊÓƵ will be paying its respects on Â鶹ÊÓƵ Day and Armistice Day with a number of services taking place in towns and villages across the Borough.