The Ahmadiyya Muslim Association is inviting the Halesowen community to join in a big Poppy Picnic this Saturday to support The Royal British Legion’s vital work for the Armed Forces community.

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People from across the area are being encouraged to bring along food and drink to the event at 224 Long Lane, where they can enjoy an afternoon packed with stalls, exhibitions and engaging demonstrations from the Sea and Air Cadets, Midlands Police and the Fire Brigade.

The Picnic will be a fun get-together and if people forget to bring food to nibble, there will be samosas, donated by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association, available for a small contribution on the day, with all money raised going to the Legion.

Mayor of Dudley Councillor, Alan Finch, will open the Poppy Picnic at 12.00hrs (noon) and the event will finish at 16.30hrs with a few words from local Legion fundraiser, Alison Bates.

Toby Ephram, from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, Midlands Region said: “The Ahmadiyya Muslims are known for raising money for the Royal British Legion and other charities.  Islam teaches us loyalty and obedience to our home land, this is the best way we can give to our local community.  We welcome everyone regardless of their political and religious beliefs as this is the time for us to work together to support our men and women.”

This is the Legion’s first ever Poppy Picnic campaign, and a great way of making your outdoor summer event more meaningful. It is not only about getting together with friends and family, it’s an opportunity to celebrate and honour those who serve and show solidarity with Armed Forces families, who are a key focus of the Legion’s support this year.

Charles Byrne, the Legion’s Director of Fundraising said: “With the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, many in the Armed Forces community will need support on the home front. Armed Forces families are a key focus for the Legion this year, whether it is employment support, crisis grants or benefits and money advice. The fundraising that you’re doing by supporting our Poppy Picnics will make a real impact on the lives of those we help.

“We spend £1.6 million each week providing social, emotional and financial care to the whole Armed Forces community – currently serving and ex-Service people, and their dependents too.”

To register your own event, order a Poppy Picnic pack and get inspiring picnic ideas, please visit www.poppypicnic.org.uk.