This week, communities across Rochdale will come together to thank local service men and women, veterans and their families for their incredible efforts helping to support and protect British interests and values.

Tony said, “During remembrance, we recall the sacrifices made by Rochdale service men and service women, veterans and their families, past and present. We must honour and remember their sacrifice.”

“Our armed forces continue to show just how indispensable they are to the nation’s security. From training Ukrainian troops to supporting NATO allies in Estonia, the UK’s servicemen and servicewomen continue to play a central role to keep Britain safe and secure.

“Whether it’s supporting the local poppy appeal or passing on the understanding of its importance to the next generation, it’s vital we recognise their efforts.”

Following the launch of its national poppy appeal, the Royal British Legion (RBL) are back in local communities across the country to raise vital funds to support our armed forces communities.

Labour is backing the charity’s efforts to encourage schools across the country to support the teaching of remembrance, to ensure its importance is passed on to the next generation.

The charity has developed a range of free teaching resources to be used in local schools or at home, with all of the lesson plans linked to the national curriculum for key stages 1-5.

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Notes to editors:-

1.    Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal – ways to get involved: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/poppy-appeal
2.    Royal British Legion ‘Teaching Remembrance’ resources: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/remembrance/teaching-remembrance