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News > Memories > Lest we forget

Lest we forget

David Pickup is reminded of annual events to raise money for the British Legion's Poppy Appeal.
11 Nov 2022
Written by David Pickup
Memories

Remembrance Day is upon us again and each year as we approach the ceremonies that take place worldwide I am reminded not only of all those who gave their lives in this and other conflicts, but of the annual competition that took place at Oswestry School to raise money for the British Legion's annual Poppy Appeal.

Duncan Felton (front row, second from left), who arrived at the school in 1920 hot on the heels of Headmaster Ralph Williamson, had been Officer Commanding Hereford Officer Training Corps and he was very passionate about raising money for this very worthy cause.

During the weeks leading up to 11 November, Duncan's booming voice would resonate throughout the long school corridor as he trawled from classroom to classroom pitting one class against another for the honour of raising the most money for the appeal.

This larger-than-life character, with a voice to match, would growl and cajole us to sink our hands into sewn-up pockets, exhorting us to part with money from our meager, supply of weekly pocket money. 

It was a small sacrifice to make in support of this worthiest of causes. 

We Must Always Remember Them.

 

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