PERSISTENT rain failed to dampen the spirits of those who gathered outside Worcester Guildhall to watch this year’s Poppy Appeal launch.

The Met Office had put a yellow weather warning in place to the heavy rain on Saturday which caused flooding and substantial surface water on various roads in and around the city.

However, that didn’t prevent a decent crowd congregating on the High Street for the annual launch which saw poppies rain down onto the steps of the hall.

Mayor Allah Ditta launched the fundraiser and commemoration of all the fallen heroes since World War One, though MP Robin Walker was held up in Westminster and sent his apologies.

Royal British Legion county chairman David Waldron encouraged those in attendance to “please please wear that poppy with pride” before making light of the miserable weather.

“The poppy is a symbol of remembrance,” he said from the steps of the guildhall as the rain bucketed down. “It is neither political nor religious. The first Poppy Appeal was in 1921 – it raised just over £106,000.

“The Poppy Appeal last year raised £54.1m – £811,000 in Worcestershire alone.”

Mr Waldron went on to say: “As I have said many times, I don't really care how or where you wear that poppy but I ask you, pleases please wear that poppy with pride.”

Once Councillor Ditta had marked the start of the appeal, a prayer was read by the RBL’s Worcestershire chaplain, the Reverend Peter Davies, and the Last Post and the Reviell was played by bugler Geoff Sansome.

Also in attendance were RBL county patron Angela Brinton, county president Brigadier Roger Brunt, and The Polish Heritage Society.

Mr Waldron continued: “Standard bearers, cadets, our bugler, Geoff, the mayor, the president and patron and most of all you the public for standing there in the rain to support us – thank you all and I hope you haven't got too wet.”

During a short speech of his own, Cllr Ditta said: “It really is an honour and a privilege to be a part of the Poppy Appeal launch.

“I'm not going to indulge too much – can I officially endorse and open this. It gives me great pleasure and I hope that we will increase the Appeal year on year.”

The event started at 10.25pm on Saturday and included a two-minute silence.