Military Claygate
FAMILY STORIES ON REMEMBRANCE SILHOUETTES
Silhouettes of soldiers and nurses are placed around the village every autumn at remembrance time and this year the Parish Council is inviting Claygate residents to submit their family stories to appear on the figures.
We are seeking photographs of a family member who participated in either the First or Second World War, with a brief history of their service and connection to Claygate. These stories will be attached to the silhouettes. If you would like to submit a story or learn more about the project, please email: hadleigh.moon@claygateparishcouncil.gov.uk
POPPY APPEAL
In the aftermath of the First World War, four organisations came together, forming what became the Royal British Legion to fight the injustices faced by those returning aer active service. While the Legion enjoyed royal patronage from its foundation in 1921, it received its full "Royal" appellation on May 29 1971, its golden anniversary. The King is now its patron. In 1981, membership was extended to serving members of Her Majesty's Forces, as well as to ex-service personnel. And today, anyone can become a member.
The Legion continues to respond to the changing needs of the armed forces community, providing life-changing and sometimes life-saving support arising from the country’s involvement in all forms of armed conflict. Its work relies on the generous support of the public, with money raised principally during the annual two weeks of the Poppy Appeal in late October and early November, culminating in the Remembrance Day ceremonies.
Nationally, the 2023 Poppy Appeal stands at £28m but is expected to rise; in Surrey the total collected so far is £878,000 and, again, expected to rise before the year’s account is closed in the spring. As usual, the village’s three schools made significant contributions to Claygate’s total donation.
The Legion is always on the lookout for members and volunteers. Please see the Royal British Legion website or contact Hugh Stephenson, the Claygate Parish Poppy Appeal Organiser, on 01372 464 217 or 07950 029 130 or by email: hughstephenson@btinternet.com.
