Every time we see the War Memorial outside of Luton Town Hall we are reminded of the brave service of the Armed Forces who fought to protect our country and freedom. Their names may not be familiar to us but we owe to each of them a respect and admiration that we must never forget.

The British Legion’s Poppy Appeal helps us focus our minds on those we owe so much to and each year we wear our Poppies with pride. Whilst we pay our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom we must remember and reaffirm our duty towards the men, women and families of our Armed Forces serving today.

Our Armed Forces continue to serve us with courage and distinction but the Government continues to fail to provide them with what is necessary to carry out the task we ask of them. It is our duty to fight to ensure that they have the support and equipment they need and are treated with the respect they so rightly deserve.

The British Legion represents the very best of our country and the Poppy Appeal raises money to provide vital support to those who have served our country and their families. By wearing a Poppy we show our support for the British Legion, our Armed Forces and help them continue their essential work.

At this time of year we reflect and pay our respects to all those to who have served and continue to serve our country, but our duty towards them never ends.

This year let us ensure that we fulfil our duty to serve them.

Councillor Qurban Hussain

Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate, Luton South.