LYMM’S “Poppy Man” is stepping down – after 43 years work for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
Ray Massey, who to put it in his own words, is “knocking on the door of 82” has informed the Legion’s Lymm branch he has organised his last Poppy Appeal.
The branch has to find someone else to take over this year.
Ray (pictured) has been a member of the RBL for 60 years, has been associated with the Poppy Appeal for 43 years and has been the Poppy Day organiser for 19 years.
He said: “I am not getting any younger and I am registered disabled. It is time for someone else to take over.
“I have met many people and made many friends over the years as a result of my association with the Poppy Appeal. But I now feel I have served my time.
“I would like to thank all the members of the RBL committee and the Poppy collectors who have helped me. I will do all I can to help whoever takes over from me.
“I would also like to thank everyone who has given generously over the years.”
Ray had a special word of thanks for the manager and staff at Lymm’s Somerfield store.
He has had a stall in the store every year and always raised more than £1,000 there himself.
