As the Royal British Legion nears its centenary on 15 May, branches across west Cheshire have been busy preparing a '100 Miles for 100 Years' fundraising event.

In Helsby, Poppy Appeal Organiser Fiona Purcell has planned a 4.5 mile walk which loops round the War Memorials of Alvanley and Helsby while soaking up the sights of our local landscapes. A booklet detailing the route can be obtained from the Old Bank Tea Rooms on Chester Road, for a suggested donation of £1.

For local businesses or households also wishing to support the event, the Royal British Legion has created sponsored lamppost poppies, which can be displayed outside your premises or home for a recommended donation of £5, and then reused in the lead-up to Remembrance Day.

Finally, to mark the centenary a special commemorative pin badge has been produced. These are available through the Poppy Shop or from Fiona herself, at a cost of £4.

As the country's largest Armed Forces charity, the Royal British Legion has provided financial, social and emotional support to members and veterans of the Navy, Army and Air Force since just after the First World War, and will continue to do so into the future.

So if you're looking for a walk to try this weekend, why not pop over to the Old Bank Tea Rooms for your 100 Year Celebration Walk leaflet?

If you would like to volunteer to help The Poppy appeal this year in Helsby please contact Fiona Purcell at [email protected]