THE Richmond branch of the Royal British Legion is preparing for the upcoming Remembrance period.

A new Poppy Appeal organiser, Peter Fowler, and volunteers will distribute collection boxes throughout the area next month, and anyone who wants a box or poppy wreath, or wants to help, should contact him on 01748-811054.

The Richmond Remembers festival at Richmond School, organised by Richmond Royal British Legion and Richmond Rotary Club, will take place on Saturday, November 7 at 7pm. Music will be provided by Reeth Brass Band, supported by the Musicality choir.

Proceeds will go to the Poppy Appeal and Phoenix House recovery centre in Catterick Garrison.

Tickets, priced at £8, are available in early October from Castle Hill Bookshop or 01748-811054 and 01748-824313.

The annual Royal British Legion Civic Remembrance Sunday Parade takes place on November 8 in Richmond.

The parade commences at 9.45am and proceeds to St Mary’s church after the service it will march to the war memorial in Friary Gardens for the 11am Ceremony of Remembrance.

The parade will then move onto to the RAF and Green Howards memorials for wreath laying and then return to the town hall.

There will also be a short Laying of Crosses ceremony on Armistice Day, November 11, at 11am in Friary Gardens, attended by the Mayor and military. All are welcome at both events.