Caerphilly County Borough is getting ready to remember those who have lost their lives in conflict.
There will be services, parades and the laying of wreaths across the county borough on November 8 to mark Remembrance Sunday.
Services take place in Blackwood, Cefn Fforest, Maesycwmmer, Caerphilly, Llanbradach, Abertysswg, Rhymney, Pengam, Cwmfelinfach, Wyllie, Gelligaer, Tir-Y-Birth, Cwmcarn, Abercarn, Fochriw, Deri, Pontlottyn, Aberbargoed, Risca, Ystrad Fawr Hospital, Bargoed, Markham and Newbridge.
Islwyn MP Chris Evans joined local cadets as they helped launch the annual Poppy Appeal in Sainsbury’s Pontllanfraith on Saturday, October 24.
Run by the Royal British Legion, the veteran’s charity is hoping to raise money to continue their work helping to support members of the armed forces.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Evans said: “By wearing a poppy we can ensure that we never forget the sacrifices which past, present and future generations make for our freedom.
“The Poppy Appeal doesn’t only support veterans of the past. There are growing numbers of ex-service families throughout the constituency and the advice and support given to them by The Royal British Legion is invaluable.
“The professionalism and dedication of our armed forces is something we can all be proud of.”
For the first time in South East Wales, last year’s Poppy Appeal managed to raise £1 million.
• Residents of Caerphilly County Borough, as well as visitors, will be able to show their appreciation and support for the armed forces next year as the South Wales Armed Forces Day celebrations comes to Caerphilly town.
The annual event, which for the past ten years has been held in Cardiff city centre, will come to Caerphilly County Borough on Saturday, June 25, 2016.
More than 600 service personnel, including representatives from the British Army, Air Force and Royal Navy, as well as cadets and Armed Forces veterans will form a parade through the streets of Caerphilly town centre, before a special Drum Head Service is held against the backdrop of Caerphilly Castle.
A full list of services is available on Caerphilly County Borough council’s website.
I’ll be there. Have never served or lost anyone to conflict but I sleep safely every night because of these people. I would encourage anyone in the Caerphilly area to attend as its only an hour or so out of your day, one day a year.