Bishop’s Stortford Poppy Appeal: Why It Starts Long Before November with Heidi Barden
Show notes
Heidi Barden - Bishop’s Stortford Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal
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Heidi Barden returns to the podcast to talk about her work volunteering with the Royal British Legion and helping to organise the Bishop’s Stortford Poppy Appeal.
The poppies might become most visible around Remembrance, but the work starts much earlier. Heidi explains what goes on behind the scenes, why the team needs new volunteers every year and how even a single two-hour supermarket shift can make a difference. The appeal currently covers Tesco, Aldi, Sainsbury’s in Thorley and Jackson Square, Waitrose, with Lidl potentially joining the list.
Heidi also shares why the cause means so much to her, including a powerful encounter while volunteering at London Poppy Day that put her own contribution into perspective. She explains where the money raised goes, the many ways people can support the local branch, and why knitted and crocheted poppies are always gratefully received.
Poppy Appeal Launch
Date: Saturday 24 October
Location: Jackson Square, Bishop’s Stortford
The launch brings together veterans, emergency services, dignitaries and the public before just over two weeks of collections across the town.
Get Involved
The Bishop’s Stortford Royal British Legion branch is looking for volunteers to help cover supermarket collection shifts.
Shifts are generally two hours, and people can volunteer for as much or as little time as they are able to give.
Heidi recommends contacting the branch through its Facebook page or the dedicated Poppy Appeal contact details.
Poppy Appeal Organiser - Paul Vile
Email - poppyappealbishopsstortford@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071220533148
The team also welcomes knitted and crocheted poppies, with patterns available through the Royal British Legion website.
https://branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/bishops-stortford
Stortford Spotlight: Returner Questions
What local business are you rooting for?
Belle’s Place
https://bellesplaceholistic.co.uk/
Heidi describes Belle’s Place as much more than a business, praising it as a community hub that brings people together and supports a wide range of local activities.
What community project, club or cause should people know about?
The Bishop’s Stortford Independent
https://www.bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk/
Heidi highlights the Indy for championing local causes, knowing the people behind the stories and genuinely caring about the Bishop’s Stortford community.
What local legends should we interview on the podcast?
Sue Tillett from All About You Makeup Artist
Heidi describes Sue as great fun, a champion of women and someone who helps people feel confident and ready for important occasions. Her verdict: “You can never have enough Sue in your life.”