MONEY raised for last year’s Poppy Appeal rose by £7million despite threats from pro-Palestine protesters.
Volunteers stayed away from collecting at some main stations over fears of trouble in the wake of the Hamas-Israel war.
The Sun reported at the time of collectors fearing for their safety and the public struggling to find sellers to buy a poppy.
But figures released by the Royal British Legion today show the 2023 appeal raised £49.2million — up from the £42million in 2022.
The appeal provides funds for more than 90,000 veterans from all conflicts and their families.
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Israel’s response to the October 7 killings and kidnappings in the country by Hamas sparked pro-Palestinian protests across the UK.
A number of those targeted train stations and transport hubs which are areas many people traditionally buy poppies from.
But despite the impact on collections the 51,000 volunteers helped to beat the 2022 figure.
They were selling the Legion’s first “green poppy” made from 100 per cent biodegradable paper.
More digital and online donations were made too in the build-up to Remembrance Day on November 11.
Poppy Appeal director Lucy Inskip said last night: “We are delighted to have raised £49.2million for the Armed Forces community.
“This achievement would not have been possible without our dedicated Poppy Appeal organisers, volunteers, partner organisations, and the generosity of the general public.
“The money raised will go towards the RBL’s vital work ensuring those who have served and sacrificed in the British Armed Forces get the support they need, whenever they need it.”