Stone's Royal British Legion branch is seeking new members and volunteers as it prepares to launch its annual Poppy Appeal. The branch wants to dispel a common misconception that membership is only available to serving military personnel or veterans.
Local volunteer Dave Babb, who has supported the Poppy Appeal since 2010, is keen to encourage residents to get involved. He emphasises that membership is open to everyone, regardless of whether they have any connection to the Armed Forces.
Membership and joining
Annual membership costs £24. Members can join the Stone branch, attend local meetings, and become more involved in the branch's activities if they wish. Many local volunteers, including Babb himself, are civilians with no military experience.
Babb said: "Many local volunteers (including myself) are civilians and have no military experience, all you need is a desire to help."
Members meet locally, with The Star pub providing private meeting space. The branch has expressed thanks to the pub for its continued hospitality.
Getting involved
The branch is particularly looking for people who can spare time to support its fundraising events, especially the Poppy Appeal. Volunteers can help collect donations in Stone's supermarkets during the appeal period.
The branch is also seeking to increase its visibility online and welcomes residents following its Facebook page, 'Stone Branch of the Royal British Legion', where it shares information about local activities.
Last year's fundraising
Stone raised £34,482.61 for the Poppy Appeal in 2025. The branch is hoping to exceed this figure this year.
Babb recalled a memorable moment from his years volunteering when a young girl visited Stone's former Co-op supermarket, now B&M, with her mother. The girl had baked cakes, sold them at school, and donated the proceeds to the appeal.
Babb said: "The poppy appeal is very rewarding to be involved with, it really brings the best out in people."
Other branch activities
Earlier in 2026, the branch planned a Great Tommy Sleep Out on Stone High Street as part of a fundraising initiative supporting veterans facing homelessness and hardship. The branch is also considering a special celebration of the Poppy Appeal in 2027.
How to join or volunteer
Residents interested in becoming a member can do so through the official Royal British Legion website, where they can choose to join the Stone branch. Those who prefer to volunteer can also find information about helping with the Poppy Appeal on the same website.
Anyone purchasing poppy merchandise online should use the official Royal British Legion Poppy Shop rather than unofficial sellers, to ensure the purchase benefits the charity.
This year's appeal takes place ahead of Stone's Remembrance Sunday commemorations on Sunday 8 November.