Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal launches in Benidorm

THE Royal British Legion has launched this year’s annual Poppy Appeal in Benidorm.
Members marked the occasion with an impressive parade through the streets of the town, marching from Calle Castellon and along the Paseo de Levante to the Rincon de Loix to the stirring sound of the Torrevieja Pipes and Drums band.
The standard bearers carried the British and Spanish flags, as well as those of the RBL districts.
There were two very special guests of honour at this year’s event: Chelsea Pensioners Wayne Campbell and Arthur ‘Skippy’ Teasdale, who next year will celebrate his 90^th birthday.  The two gentlemen have travelled from London every year since 2010 to be part of the appeal launch.
British consul in Alicante Sarah-Jane Morris was among the dignitaries taking part in the appeal launch ceremonies in the Avenida de l’Ametlla de Mar, who also included embassy representative Ed Dunn, RBL district President Don Cubbon and Poppy Appeal organiser Andrew Richardson.
Benidorm Mayor Toni Perez also played an important part in the events. In his speech the council leader recalled “the sacrifice” of all the soldiers who have given their lives “to ensure peace and democracy in a strong, prosperous and united Europe.”
Perez praised the Legion for all its hard work and encouraged members to carry on “defending the values which unite the British and Spanish people.”