Manchester Poppy Day: Hundreds of volunteers take part in biggest street collection outside of London

One of those is Vicky Lawson who began her career in the Royal Artillery back in 1995.

She served for 21 years but was then medically discharged as a result of PTSD and Fibromyalgia.

Speaking about her return to civilian life, Vicky said, “I found the transition very difficult… it was the Royal British Legion I contacted for help.”

After reaching out, Vicky received help almost immediately. She said: "I needed some counselling… if it wasn’t for the Royal British Legion helping me in that way, I think things would have been a very different story.”

Now, Vicky is a Poppy Appeal Manager for the Royal British Legion.

This is her first year marking Poppy Day in Manchester since starting the role, and she’s incredibly proud to do her bit to ensure that “the poppy appeal continues forevermore for our younger generations.”

Having come full-circle, she says, “That’s what makes me more proud and passionate about working for the Royal British Legion - having been through it myself.”

During Manchester Poppy Day, the Royal British Legion have a presence across the city: donation points, a Military Band, and a laying of tributes at the St Peter’s Square Cenotaph.

Judith Reay, Senior Volunteer Recruitment Manager for the Poppy Appeal, said: “The support in Manchester is always incredible and it’s great to see so many people wearing their plastic-free poppies this year, knowing the money they donate makes a huge difference to the lives of so many people in the region’s Armed Forces community.”