THIS year’s Poppy Appeal in Bournemouth was officially launched yesterday by the Mayor.

Cllr Chris Rochester asked people to show their support for the Armed Forces as he bought the first poppy at the Town Hall.

He said: “Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday allow us all to stop and reflect on the past and present selfless sacrifices made by servicemen and women.

“Please give generously to the Royal British Legion appeal and wear your poppy with pride.

“Poppies will be available in venues around Bournemouth, including the Town Hall reception.

The mayor was joined by his appointed scout and guide, as well as several war veterans and local Poppy Appeal organisers.

Arthur Taylor, 91, joined the Forces in July 1937 and served with the 13 Squadron on RAF Lysanders.

He said: “Can you imagine being at a beach and seeing planes dive-bombing and bomb shelling?

“There were arms and legs flying everywhere and British bodies being brought in with the tide. We lost thousands of people.”

“At one time, I was stationed at what was RAF Christchurch, where I met my wife, Vera, and we got married three months later.

“Then I had to leave her, as I only had three days leave to get married and then I didn’t see her again for over three years.

“I always carry pictures round with me in my uniform, with our marriage certificate and our wedding photo, because they’re memories and they’re very important to remember.”

George Gowres, 84, served in the RAF for 36 years as an aircraft technician, amongst other things.

“I worked on the Spitfire, Hurricane, Wellington, Halifax, Lancaster, Lincoln and many others.”

The annual Service of Remembrance takes place on Sunday November 13 at the War Memorial.