Photo Credit: Shaun Greaney
Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed Sara Edwards officially launched Llanelli’s 2026 Poppy Appeal as the town showed its support for the Armed Forces and veterans with a new community hub on Saturday, October 24.
A large crowd enjoyed a wonderful atmosphere at the Royal British Legion Hub in Market Precinct and St Elli Shopping Centre.
The event marked the beginning of this year’s Poppy Appeal campaign, bringing together local residents, veterans, community organisations and members of the Armed Forces community to show their support for the vital work carried out by the Royal British Legion charity.
Lord Lieutenant Sara Edwards officially opened the Community Hub by cutting the ribbon, marking a special moment for the Llanelli branch as the town begins its annual period of remembrance.
Crowds flocked to the event on Saturday morning.
RBL Llanelli Branch Secretary Catherine Davies said:
“It was wonderful to see so many young people in attendance, including Army Cadets, Sea Cadets and Air Force Cadets. Their presence was a fitting reminder of the importance of remembering those who have served, while recognising the younger generations who continue to demonstrate commitment, service and community spirit.”
Ms Davies added:
“Music played a special part in the celebrations, with Llanelli’s own Cor Curiad choir delivering a wonderful performance that added warmth and atmosphere to the occasion. Their singing was enjoyed by those attending and helped make the launch a memorable event.”
The Llanelli RBL committee was delighted to welcome members of the Llanelli Veterans Association to the Community Hub.
Ms Davies said:
“Working collaboratively with fellow organisations that share a commitment to supporting veterans and their families is something the branch greatly values. The day demonstrated what can be achieved when local organisations and the wider community come together behind a shared purpose.
“The committee would like to thank everyone who attended, volunteered, performed and helped make the launch such a success. Special thanks go to Sara Edwards, Cor Curiad choir, the cadet organisations, the Llanelli Veterans Association and all those who gave their time and support.”
The Poppy Appeal raises funds to help the Royal British Legion provide vital support to serving and ex-serving members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families. Every donation, no matter how small, can help make a meaningful difference to those who need it.
With the Poppy Appeal now underway, the branch is encouraging the people of Llanelli to continue showing their support in the coming weeks.
The annual Remembrance Sunday commemorations will take place at the Cenotaph in the grounds of Llanelli Town Hall on November 8.
Organisations and individuals wishing to lay a wreath and be included in the parade and wreath-laying arrangements must email Llanelli Town Council at enquiries@llanellitowncouncil.gov.uk no later than Friday, October 30, 2026.
Wreaths can be purchased and collected from the Royal British Legion Community Hub at 8-10 Market Precinct, St Elli Shopping Centre.
Tickets are now on sale for Llanelli’s Festival of Remembrance, taking place at Ffwrnes Theatre on Saturday, November 14, at 7pm.
Tickets, priced at £15 (half-price for RBL members), can be purchased from the theatre box office.
Ms Davies said:
“The evening promises to be a wonderful celebration of local talent, music and remembrance, bringing the community together to honour our Armed Forces and remember the local heroes who sadly lost their lives and paid the ultimate sacrifice.
“Featuring talented local performers alongside moments of reflection and remembrance, the festival promises to be a fitting tribute to those who gave so much for our freedom.”
All proceeds from the Festival of Remembrance will go towards the Poppy Appeal.
“As Llanelli moves through this important period of remembrance, the Royal British Legion branch hopes the community will continue to stand together, honour the fallen and support those who have served, and those who continue to serve, our country,” added Ms Davies.
Photos: Shaun Greaney
