Romsey has been chosen to stage the launch of the Royal British Legion's Hampshire Poppy Appeal, on October 27.

And the organisers of the event are hoping the sky will turn red with a Poppy Petal Drop over the town by aircraft from Middle Wallop.

However, Royal British Legion Community Fundraiser, Clare Peppiatt, said they were awaiting confirmation from the Army Air Corps and the drop would also depend on the weather conditions on the day.

A number of dignitaries will attend the event including the Mayor of Romsey, Mike Richardson; the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Mary Fagan, JP; Admiral of the Fleet Sir Henry Leach, GCB, DL; Lord Brabourne; Mayor of Test Valley, Jim Neil, JP; and a host of other Hampshire civic leaders and officers of the Royal British Legion.

RBL standard bearers from all over the county will meet at Romsey War Memorial Park at 10.15 am, before marching to Romsey Town Hall. At 10.50 am, the dignitaries will join the procession of standard bearers to Romsey Abbey for a short service, conducted by Canon Neil Crawford Jones.

Some slight disruption to traffic is expected during the morning of the ceremony.

Norman Brown, County Poppy Appeal Co-ordinator, said he was pleased the launch was coming to Romsey. "It's nice to come to a town where we have been so warmly welcomed by the council and other organisations."

He said the Poppy Appeal was as relevant today as it ever was and he was keen to encourage the interest and support of the young.

"Some people think it's only about the two World Wars, but we are supporting the lads and lasses in Iraq and Afghanistan as well," said Norman.

Among those wearing their poppy with pride this year will be the Saints footballers. The players will be wearing special shirts embroidered with a red poppy for their match away to Sunderland on November 11 and these collectors items will be auctioned off in aid of the appeal on the club's website.

l The organisers of the Romsey launch event are having difficulty finding a band to play at the ceremony. If you can help, please call Clare Peppiatt, on 023 8047 7274.