Honoured for poppy effort
THE woman who organised the sale of 8,000 poppies in 150 shops around Crook and Willington received an award from the Royal British Legion.
Beverley Thomas from Willington organised the Poppy Appeal across the two towns this year which raised more than £5,000 for the legion.
Sshe received a certificate from the legion for her organisational work over the past five years although she has actually been involved for six.
Beverley said: “It’s nice to get recognition but that’s not why I do it. My mum lost two great uncles in World War One and my granddad lied to get into the army during World War Two.
“Had he been killed then I wouldn’t be here today. I think the Poppy Appeal this year has been particularly dear to people because of the conflicts. I think the services went well this year and I’d like to thank all the people who help me by going out to selling and distributing poppies.
“Thanks go to Colin Hayton, Francis Anne Johnson, Lisa and Margaret Metcalfe from Willington Resource Centre, Eddie Murphy, St Catherine’s Community Centre, Margaret Pinkney, Lillian Bennet, Christina Jackson and Ken Godard, Sandra Lawton and Alison Hirst from Crook Community Partnership.
“I’d also like to thank Co-op Funeral care who donated a chauffeur to drive me around which was excellent.”
To volunteer next year, telephone 07745509406.