The Poppy Appeal officially launched in Blackburn town centre today with a poignant window display decorated by local volunteers.

The Deputy Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Councillor Sylvia Liddle, together with council chief executive Denise Park, accompanied members of the Blackburn branch of the Royal British Legion to open this year’s official Poppy Shop in The Mall.

Denise Park said: "Each year we highlight the importance of the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Shop really does make a difference by showing support for those affected by war.

"Shoppers will be able to make a difference by visiting the premises, stopping by to make a donation as well as learning more about the charity and the continuous support it offers.

Lancashire Telegraph: "I will be wearing my poppy with pride and would encourage others to do the same."

The Poppy Shop sells a variety of official Royal British Legion merchandise including poppies and within the hub this year visitors can donate to The Poppy Appeal by interacting in the hub.

Visitors can have a cup of tea or coffee, look at remembrance displays made and supported by local businesses, or lay a wreath or cross at the 8ft Cenotaph.

Lancashire Telegraph:

There is also a Second World War display with music from the period gently played in the background.

People can also chat to serving soldiers from The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, and young visitors can colour in Remembrance pictures with crayons.

Deputy Mayor Cllr Sylvia Liddle attended the opening, and was impressed with the efforts the team at Blackburn had gone to to get the shop ready.Lancashire Telegraph: She said: "I think the display is absolutely wonderful and shows a testament to the hard work the volunteers have gone into months before today.

"I have been to similar openings of The Poppy Appeal but this is may be the best I have ever seen."

The annual Poppy Appeal runs in the lead up to Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday, when the nation pauses to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in both the First and Second World War, and all subsequent conflicts, to protect the freedom we enjoy today.

In Blackburn with Darwen, a Remembrance Concert is taking place at King George’s Hall on Thursday, November 9.

On Saturday, November 11, Remembrance Services will take place at Blackburn Town Hall and in Darwen Market Square, while on Remembrance Sunday services will take place at St Peter's Church, Darwen, and Blackburn Cathedral, followed by parades and wreath laying services.