Damian Hinds, the Secretary of State for Education, helped to launch this year’s Poppy Appeal at Liphook’s Sainsbury’s Store before his duties at the Carnival.

Together with East Hampshire district councillor Angela Glass he welcomed the new chairman of the Liphook Royal British Legion, Lt Col Sean Brady, who has taken over from the retired Lt Col Jamie Jack.

Mr Hinds told The Herald: “I was delighted to join Sean Brady and his team for the launch of the 2018 Poppy Appeal, particularly as Jamie Jack is stepping down as the organiser after an amazing 25 years with the local Royal British Legion.

“Thank you to him and everyone involved for the great job they do in organising the collection, which will be particularly poignant in the year marking the centenary of the end of WWI.”

Lt Col Brady, a serving Marine, said: “Jamie has been magnificent over the last 25 years in supporting the Poppy Appeal and running the Liphook branch of the Royal British Legion. 

“He has made a real difference and helped raise a significant sum of money over the years to support this great cause. I am immensely proud to be taking over as chairman and I hope I can build on his legacy.”

Last year’s appeal raised £14,064.72 across the parish and RBL members hope to increase the amount in 2018, as part of the centenary commemorations marking the end of the First World War.

A total of 140 collection boxes were distributed to shops, schools and offices in the parish and house to house collections are due to take place during the two week Poppy Appeal, which closes on Saturday, November 10.

A Remembrance Service will be held on Armistice Day, on Sunday, November 11, at St Mary’s Church in Bramshott, starting at 10.30am. All welcome.