ONE hundred thousand poppies were dropped from the roof of Poole’s Dolphin Shopping Centre to mark the launch of this year’s Poppy Appeal.

Dignitaries, service personnel, former servicemen and members of the Royal British Legion (RBL) joined the crowds to observe a minute’s silence during yesterday’s poignant launch in Falkland Square.

A number of other activities and attractions took place to mark the fundraising drive for the Legion in its centenary year.

Ian Jarvis, RBL community fundraiser for Dorset, said: “The poppy isn’t just about remembrance, it is also about providing hope for the armed forces community of all ages throughout the year.

“Last year Dorset raised more than £606,000, which was an increase of £24,000 on the previous year.

“It will be a tough target to beat, but we believe that working with the fantastic volunteers we have in Dorset, anything is achievable.”

An eight-piece military band, standard bearers and children who have been recognised for their fundraising activities attended the ceremony.

There was also the opportunity to explore motorcycles of the RBL Riders Branch and two specially-adapted Land Rovers that had just returned from Afghanistan.

The launch also coincided with the introduction of the RBL’s new slogan ‘Live On’, which aims to highlight that the charity does not just focus on the memory of fallen servicemen and women, but also the future of the living.

Dolphin Shopping Centre manager, John Grinnell, said: “We are thrilled to be supporting the Royal British Legion’s poppy launch, especially in its centenary year.

“We know this charity is close to the hearts of the people of Poole.”