DRAY horses Jim and Guinness joined in the launch of the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal in Brighton yesterday.

The handsome pair from Harvey’s Brewery in Lewes were presented with posies of poppies which they will wear on their harnesses for the duration of the appeal.

City mayor Councillor Dee Simson performed the honours at the Royal British Legion’s centre in Queen’s Road.

The appeal is particularly significant this year as we mark the centenary of the end of the First World War.

Cllr Simson said: “This is the 100th year since the First World War ended and we shouldn’t forget those who have sacrificed to make life better for us.

“It’s important to keep commemorating it so young people become aware of what had happened. There are a lot of veterans in the city who have fought for our country and it’s vital we honour their sacrifices.”

Last year, £1.4 million was raised across Sussex in the Poppy Appeal. This year, the legion aims to raise £50 million – the biggest national target yet.

The Royal British Legion’s area manager in Brighton Jim France said: “During the Poppy Appeal 2018 we are calling on the nation to say ‘thank you’ to the First World War generation, not just the British Armed Forces, but those who fought alongside them from today’s Commonwealth and the countless men, women and children who played their part of the home front.

“The work of the legion is as relevant and vital today as it was in the aftermath of the First World War when the charity was founded. The donation for your poppy will help the legion support today’s Armed Forces community through hardships, injury and bereavements.

“Generations of the Armed Forces have continued to serve and sacrifice since the First World War and we recognise and thank them all for their contribution.

“The legion’s work is entirely dependent on the public’s generous support so please wear your poppy with pride and dig deep, knowing you are supporting our Armed Forces community.”

The legion uses the donations to provide crisis support, lobbying, sport and art based recovery programmes.