AS chairman of Lancashire County Council I would like to applaud the work of the Royal British Legion (RBL) and to encourage everyone to give as generously as possible to this year's poppy appeal.

The RBL provides financial, social and emotional support to millions who have served, and are serving, in the armed forces and their families, including a great many of our own citizens throughout Lancashire.

This year in particular the RBL is facing new challenges as it plays a central role in helping the families of those British servicemen who have died in Iraq, and helping those who are injured and traumatised to return to

normal civilian life.

This year, please do give generously to this most worthy cause.

Vali Patel,

Chairman of Lancashire County Council