Picnics in the park raise funds for Armed Forces

Photo: Simon France

Poppy river in Hare Hill Park

Last month’s ‘Poppy Picnics’ raised more than £1,700 for the Royal British Legion.

A cheque for £1,705 was presented to Wing Commander David Forbes, President of Rochdale British Legion and Tina Pringle, Community Fundraiser for Greater Manchester, this week following seven picnics held across the borough in June to raise funds for the armed forces community.

Events were held in Falinge Park, Hopwood Woods, Queen’s Park, Balderstone Park, Norden Jubilee Park, Rochdale Memorial Gardens and Hare Hill Park. They were organised by ‘friends of’ parks groups and community groups, with support from Rochdale Borough Council. Highlights included a poppy river in Hare Hill Park, fun days in Balderstone Park and Norden Jubilee Park and a talent show in Queen’s Park.

Councillor Alan McCarthy, Lead Member for the Armed Forces, said: “Despite the weather over that weekend the turnout and the support for all the picnics was fantastic.

"The friends groups all did a great job and I am proud we were able to support such an important and worthwhile charity.”

Councillor Janet Emsley, Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing, said: “The picnics were a great opportunity for families to spend some quality family time in some of our fabulous local parks.

"All the money raised will go towards the Legion’s welfare work with servicemen and women of all ages, and their families.”

Across the country thousands of picnics are being held throughout the summer as picnickers raise funds for the Armed Forces.