WOKINGHAM’S British Legion Poppy Campaign was launched on Saturday.
As in previous years, crafting group the Barkham Hookers decorated borough post boxes with their colourful seasonal toppers.
And also, as previously, thieves stole part of one of the displays, spoiling people’s enjoyment of it.
Outside Wokingham’s old Post Office Building on Broad Street, a post box topper featuring two service personnel either side of a crocheted tin hat, has had one of its figures removed.
Gaynor White who leads The Barkham Hookers said: “I’m so disappointed that this has happened yet again.
“It just amazes me how people can do this with no thought to those around them who might enjoy it, let alone the Armed Forces personnel we are honouring.
“We have raised over £64,000 for the Poppy Appeal over the last 13 years, and these toppers help remind people about the good work that The Royal British Legion does.
“We do leave a tag on the boxes explaining what they’re for, so people can contact me if they’re interested in purchasing one for themselves.
“We put in such a lot of work to decorate Wokingham at this time of year, and it really is soul destroying when things get ripped off and stolen.
“It certainly makes me question whether we will continue to make these things.
“It’s such a shame that the minority are ruining it for the majority.”
It is understood that the figure was stolen during the night, less than 24 hours after the topper was installed.
David Dunham, who organises the Wokingham Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, said: “This happens almost every year.
“It’s theft, it’s criminal damage, whatever people may think.
“It may be of small monetary value, but it has great value in other ways.
“Frankly, I’m disgusted.
“These people have no heart – what can they do with it anyway?
“They can’t show it to anyone.
“There should be something on someone’s CCTV camera, showing the thieves in action.
“They should be named and shamed.”
Wokingham Poppy Appeal collections began on Saturday, October 25, and continue at Waitrose and Tesco Wokingham for a further two weeks.
A pop-up shop at The Bradbury Centre is also open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10am until 4pm, during the same period.
For information, visit: The Barkham Hookers’ Facebook page and britishlegion.org.uk
