Generous Edinburgh public backs 2026 Scottish Poppy Appeal on 'Poppy Saturday'

A “Poppy Army” of volunteers took to the streets of Edinburgh this weekend for a final fundraising push ahead of Remembrance Sunday.

Thousands of veterans, young cadets and members of the public descended on Waverley Station, supermarkets and city centre shopping hubs yesterday to collect donations for "Poppy Saturday".

The weekend efforts lead directly into Remembrance Sunday today, November 8, where at 11am, the nation will fall silent for two minutes in a moment of reflection for all those who have fallen in conflicts over the years.  

A Sea Cadet senior having fun with the public in Edinburgh city centre yesterday. | Mark Owens

Richard Todd, National Poppy Appeal Manager in Scotland, expressed immense gratitude for the public’s response.

He said: “The energy and support we have witnessed, not just during Poppy Saturday, but over the last three weeks across every corner of the country, has been nothing short of spectacular.

Locals paying their respects at Princes Street Gardens. Left: Connor (4) and Maia (8) from Crieff with mum and dad Grant and Jess Macdonald from Crieff placing a cross in memory of Grant's great uncle who fought in WW1. Right: Gideon (6) and Sophia Ducker (8) pay their respects with Grandad, Lt Col (Ret’d) Tony Ducker, Army Medical Corps at the grave of the Unknown Soldier. | Mark Owens

“Every single digital donation, coin or note dropped into a tin enables us to continue our support for veterans, serving personnel, and their families.

“Quite simply, we exist to ensure they are supported every step of the way, and that is only possible because of the incredible generosity of the public.”

As Scotland’s largest annual fundraising campaign, the Scottish Poppy Appeal distributes millions of iconic poppies throughout October and November.

Left to Right: Rich from Bedford, Matt from Falkirk and Andy from Leeds were all in Edinburgh to enjoy the Rugby, but not before buying a pin badge from Poppyscotland in the station. | Mark Owens

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This year’s campaign shone a dedicated spotlight on the vital, yet often unsung, support network behind every uniform, reminding the public that the sacrifices of service extend far beyond the frontline, and ensuring that military families receive the recognition and support they rightfully deserve.

Every donation to the Scottish Poppy Appeal goes toward providing life-changing financial aid, housing support, employment advice, and mental health services to our Armed Forces community here in Scotland.

To discover how your donation changes lives, or to find support, visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk.