As Remembrance Sunday approaches in Hitchin many people who want to support the Poppy Appeal are struggling again this year because of the increasing number of outlets which are now cashless since the pandemic.

A large number of shops in Hitchin town centre as well as Sainsbury's in Bancroft, and many pubs in our town still have their traditional boxes and pins on the bar or at the check-out but few people carry any loose change to purchase a poppy.

However, the Royal British Legion, which marks its 100th anniversary this year, has tried to keep pace with technology and, for the first time, introduced 5000 card machines where volunteers can accept any payment, mostly in busy areas of footfall like stations and shopping centres.

It is hoped that the Poppy Appeal will raise £5m from contactless donations this year.

The Royal British Legion's assistant director of fundraising , Simon O'Leary, told Nub News: "In a society that is fast becoming less dependent on cash, especially since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, its vital the RBL's Poppy Appeal is able to accept contactless donations.

"We've been steadily increasing the number of contactless units available each year and we try to use these devices as effectively as possible in high footfall areas.

"Every poppy counts, and we want to ensure as many people as possible can take part in Remembrance, therefore if you don't have cash or access to a contactless unit, you can still get your poppy and donate online, by text or QR code."

Here at Nub News we know that our massive family of readers are big supporters of the military and the welfare of our veterans and we turn out in our thousands for special Remembrance Day events in our communities.

So, if you are having trouble buying a poppy and making a donation Nub News is providing a simple poster guide on how to back the Royal British Legion's campaign this year.

The spokesperson said: "Our support is a lifeline for thousands of serving and ex-serving personnel and their families.

"This year, as we mark 100 years of the Royal British Legion, we celebrate the return of our Poppy Appeal collectors in local communities. Our volunteers help bring together our communities and create better futures for our Armed Forces and their families.

"They share our belief that no-one who has served to protect our freedom should be disadvantaged because of the sacrifices they have made."

Please look at the link to see how many different ways you can support the Poppy Appeal here and here