Rugby legend kicks off the appeal with tour of Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh
Scotland rugby coach Gregor Townsend officially launched the Scottish Poppy Appeal 2024 today and said it was a “real privilege” to be involved.
The former Gala RFC player visited Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory at the Poppyscotland site in Edinburgh for a tour of the historical premises and took the opportunity to chat with staff about the importance of the charity.
Rugby legend Gregor, whose playing career spanned two decades for both club and country and included spells at Brive, Montpellier and Border Reivers to name a few, was highly impressed with Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and the intricate work that goes into making the iconic Scottish poppies, wreaths and other symbols of Remembrance.
The former Scotland and British Lions star was also impressed to learn that Lady’s Haig Poppy Factory only employs disabled ex-service personnel, breaking down barriers for veterans who otherwise may struggle to find employment.
The charity also attracts dozens of volunteers of all ages, including those from the cadets and corps, who are all there to contribute to making a difference to the lives of both current and former members of the Armed Forces.
Gregor said: “It’s a real privilege to be here. Seeing veterans working, contributing like they did before. They enjoy what they do, knowing it is for a greater cause.
“On behalf of Scottish Rugby, we have a strong link with Poppyscotland and Remembrance. We wear poppies on our jerseys and the players really appreciate that link with history, especially playing our games throughout the month of November.
“Every year Poppyscotland supports hundreds of veterans and their families, helping them live life fully after service.
“Show them you care, wear a poppy. Your donation can change lives for our Armed Forces community.”
Head of Fundraising and Learning at Poppyscotland, Gordon Michie, said: “Wearing your poppy shows serving personnel, veterans, and their families, that their service and sacrifice means something to you, that it is appreciated and recognised. Importantly, it also shows that such service will never be forgotten.
“All funds raised will go to support our life-changing work, providing advice and welfare support to the Armed Forces community in Scotland.”
The Scottish Poppy Appeal is Scotland’s biggest fundraising appeal, with more than three million poppies already being distributed around the country.
The money raised from the Appeal has enabled Poppyscotland to help countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life.
People can find out more and support the Scottish Poppy Appeal at www.poppyscotland.org.uk.