SOLDIERS will stand on ceremony this week as the Lord Mayor launches the annual poppy appeal.

On Friday (October 29) soldiers from the 1st Battalion, The Royal Welch will stand on ceremony as they remember those who have died fighting for their country.

At 11am the Lord Mayor of Chester Councillor Eleanor Johnson will meet the soldiers before taking part in the ceremony where she will pin a poppy onto a soldier before a cross is added to the war memorial at Dale Barracks.

Last year the appeal raised a record breaking £1m in Cheshire and this year the British Legion is hoping that the people of Chester will help smash that target.

Julie Dove, community fundraiser for The Royal British Legion Cheshire said: “We are thrilled to have the support of the Mayor and people of Chester for this year's Poppy Appeal when so many of our local soldiers have and will be going on operations in Afghanistan.

“The team in this key region of Chester work tirelessly for The Poppy Appeal and to know that we have commitment from the local community is a huge bonus. I'm confident despite the economic climate, the people of Chester will show their sympathy and support for those who have sacrificed on behalf of their country.”