88-year-old Phil was in active service during the Korean War, and pays tribute to his fellow servicemen and women by selling Royal British Legion poppies for Armistice Day. 

In former years Phil had a regular stand at the Co-op in Chipping Norton, where over the decades he raised thousands of pounds for the Poppy Appeal. This year, care staff at Phil’s care home helped him set up a stand in reception so that he could continue to raise money for the cause that is so close to his heart.

The home’s Activities Coordinator, Tina Brain, said: “I used to see Phil on his poppy stand in the local Co-op and everyone at Henry Cornish knows how much this time of year means to Phil, so we were honoured to support him to continue selling his poppies.

“He has had a range of different items on offer and has done a roaring trade with all the team here as well as with residents and people visiting. We can’t wait to find out how much he has raised.”

Phil and the home will find out the total amount he has raised for the Poppy Appeal when the Royal British Legion send a certificate in the coming weeks detailing the final amount.
Phil said: “I was so pleased to be able to continue selling poppies. I must have sold tens of thousands of them over the years.”

He added: “It means a lot to me as I always spare a thought for the men I fought with, all those in service who came before me and all those who have come after me.”

Inspired by Phil’s dedication, residents and employees at the home joined together in the weeks leading up to Armistice Day to knit poppies. These were made into a striking dress and put on display next to Phil’s stand. 

Henry Cornish Home Manager Renata Crisostomo said: “We are privileged to care for many residents who witnessed war and active service first-hand. We are delighted to have supported Phil in continuing to do something that means such a lot to him and to many of his fellow residents.”