Ross Kemp launches 20th London Poppy Day on Thames

Actor Ross Kemp officially launched the Royal British Legion’s (RBL) London Poppy Day 2026 on Thursday. This year's launch marked a first for the annual fundraising event, taking place aboard a Thames Clippers service on the River Thames. The event is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026.

London Poppy Day is the capital's largest one-day collection for the armed forces community. In 2025, the appeal raised £1.478 million, funds that support serving personnel, veterans, and their families throughout their lives.

Aboard the Thames Clippers

Speaking to the Press Association, Mr Kemp described the launch as an honour. "I’d encourage everyone in London to get behind this year’s Poppy Appeal, give what they can and help the Royal British Legion continue its vital work supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families," he stated.

The campaign aims to raise awareness and funds through donations collected by nearly 2,500 armed forces personnel and volunteers. They will be stationed at transport hubs and busy locations throughout the city.

Support from the Mayor

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan expressed his support for the 20th anniversary of the event. "This is the biggest one-day city collection of its kind in Europe," Mr Khan said. He thanked the personnel and volunteers involved and urged Londoners to show their generosity.

The RBL provides support ranging from guidance during deployment to assistance with financial hardship and care for older veterans and their families. Military bands and choirs are scheduled to perform at approximately 22 stations across London, including Waterloo, Liverpool Street, Euston, and London Bridge.

An announcement from singer Dame Elaine Paige will also be played at stations, encouraging public participation in the fundraising efforts.

Launched in 2006, London Poppy Day has grown to become Europe’s largest one-day street collection. The RBL's work encompasses support for armed forces families from the start of service through to old age.