THE North-East is being urged to support this year’s First World War centenary Poppy Appeal.

The Royal British Legion today (Friday, October 24) launched its annual fund-raising campaign by unveiling a giant poppy at the Angel of the North, Gateshead

Teenager Abbie Moore and Lieutenant Colonel Ian Hargreaves and RSM John Stephenson, of 2 Signal Regiment, called on people to give their support.

Lieutenant Colonel Hargreaves said: “As we mark the centenary of the First World War, it’s as important as ever to wear a poppy and remember the sacrifices and commitment made by our Armed Forces both then and now.

“The message behind this year’s Poppy Appeal is Live On – to the memory of the fallen and future of the living, which captures perfectly why it’s so important to donate to the appeal and publically show our support by wearing a poppy. Every donation received will make a real difference to the lives of Regular and Reserve Service men and women, veterans and their loved ones.”

The North-East fundraising target is £1m, which will go towards the national target of £40m.

Abbie Moore, 17, from Cramlington, is raising money in memory of her father, Michael, who died in March 2013.

He served for almost 15 years in the Territorial Army at Kingston Park training new recruits.

Ms Moore said: “I know he always donated to the Poppy Appeal so I wanted his legacy to live on by doing some fundraising events to support our Armed Forces. I never really had the chance to make my dad proud so I wanted to raise money for a charity that was close to his heart.”

The Royal British Legion Community Fundraiser Rachel Hardwick said: “The Poppy Appeal 2014 embraces the dual role of The Royal British Legion as the custodians of Remembrance and provider of welfare support to the Armed Forces community.

"The poppy is a powerful symbol which is worn to commemorate all those who have fought and died in our Armed Forces and show support for those still serving today and their loved ones.

“We’re encouraging people to dig deep for this year’s Poppy Appeal to help us raise £40 million, so we can continue providing our vital support to individuals whether they’re still serving, transitioning back to civilian life or have left the Services, and importantly their families too.”