YOUNGSTERS are learning about the significance of poppies in the run-up to Remembrance Day.

Pupils from Weymouth’s Conifers Primary School were invited to help launch this year’s appeal and collect donations for the Royal British Legion.

They braved the weather as 100,000 poppies fell around their feet in a dramatic symbol of why we celebrate Poppy Day.

Teacher and rights respecting school leader Melanie Hawkins said: “Even in wet weather, their spirits are up. And that’s despite the fact we walked down and got very wet.

“We have made some poppy posters for the Sea Life land train and we’ve discussed the importance of Remembrance Day and why we wear poppies.

“We are going for a rights respecting school award and remembrance is a part of our rights respecting values.

“We teach the children that there are others whose parents work in the military services and what that means.”

Weymouth and Portland Borough Mayor Margaret Leicester, who bought a poppy from the pupils, said: “It’s so important for children to be involved in Remembrance Day.

“It’s nice to see that they are so enthusiastic about it, despite the weather.”

EACH day in the run-up to Remembrance Sunday we will be profiling volunteers and organisations which are supporting the Poppy Appeal.

We will take a closer look at the individuals who give up their time to raise money for and support the Royal British Legion.

If you are a member or supporter of the armed forces community or helping with this year’s Poppy Appeal, we would like to hear from you.

Call the Dorset Echo on 01305 830999 or email newsdesk@dorsetecho.co.uk