THE 2022 Poppy appeal literally kicked off in Thurrock today (Friday 20 October).

Grays Thurrock Branch of the Royal British Legion manned their traditional first day poppy kiosk at Lakeside shopping centre and at the nearby Lakeside football facility run by the Thurrock Sunday League a walking football tournament took place organised by local RBL chairman Rod Oakley, for the Passchendaele Trophy.

The tournament featured teams from Grays Athletic, Billericay and Romford and before the start of play the Last Post was sounded, a minute's silence held and Reveille followed.

From tomorrow poppies should be available at a multitude of venues across Thurrock.