Devon Poppy Appeal 2026 opens
It started with a special event at Market Hall, Devonport, today
Last updated 7 hours ago
The Royal British Legion has officially started this year’s Devon Poppy Appeal, with a special event at Market Hall, Devonport.
A five-year-old boy called Zachery whose mother, Chief Petty Officer Natalie Maunder-Parkes, serves in the Royal Navy and volunteers as a Poppy Appeal Organiser, presented the first poppy - highlighting this year's focus on the families who stand behind the Armed Forces
Izy Shaw, Poppy Appeal Manager for South Devon at the Royal British Legion, said: “Behind every uniform is a family making its own sacrifices, often quietly and without recognition.
"Behind every serving husband, wife, partner, mum, or dad is often a family making sacrifices of their own. From missed birthdays and family celebrations to long periods of separation and uncertainty, military families demonstrate extraordinary resilience, commitment and strength.
"Having a five-year-old military child present our first poppy, whose mum not only serves in the Royal Navy but also volunteers as a Poppy Appeal Organiser, perfectly captures this year's message that the RBL is there to support from day one of service, whatever the need, whenever it’s needed.
“Last year, the people of Devon raised an incredible £1,010,391.44 for the Poppy Appeal. This remarkable achievement reflects the generosity of our communities and the dedication of our volunteers, and we hope to build on that success this year.”
"While we rightly recognise the dedication of those who wear the uniform, we also want to acknowledge the people standing beside them, whose unwavering support makes that service possible."
One of the most poignant moments of the morning saw five-year-old Zachary, whose mum is a serving member of the Royal Navy, present the first poppy of the 2026 Devon Appeal to the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant. A fitting moment, which reflects this year’s theme and recognises the children who share in both the pride and challenges of military family life.
Also in attendance were beneficiaries of the Royal British Legion, who competed at the Invictus Games and whose experiences highlight the importance of the charity’s work and the difference that funds raised through the Poppy Appeal make to our Armed Forces community.
Lt Cdr Michael Norris, First Lieutenant at HMNB Devonport, said: “The Poppy Appeal is about both remembrance and support.
"very poppy donated will assist serving and former members of the Armed Forces and their families throughout the year.
"“We are proud of Plymouth's longstanding connection with the military and grateful for the incredible support shown by local residents, businesses and organisations.”