A six-year-old fundraiser helped launch this year’s Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal in Manchester on Wednesday, receiving a distinctive recognition for her efforts. Ivy Knighton-Leake, among the youngest participants in the annual campaign, was presented with a unique poppy crafted from metal salvaged from Second World War Spitfires. The award was given by Private Katie Brazier, 22, of the Royal Anglian Regiment, as part of the event marking the start of the 2026 appeal.

Ivy’s involvement in the fundraiser follows in the footsteps of her father, Steve Knighton, 41, a former member of the Royal Signals who served for six years. Mr. Knighton, from Bradford, credited the Royal British Legion with helping him adjust to civilian life after leaving the military. He recounted how Ivy first expressed interest in participating after seeing the fundraising stalls a few years ago. “I showed her that I was collecting, and she said, ‘Can I join you, can I have a poppy shop?’” he said. For him, supporting the appeal is deeply personal, reflecting both his military background and gratitude for assistance received from the Legion.

Kimberley Leake, Ivy’s mother, emphasized the significance of maintaining the military connection across generations. “It’s so important to me. I had a father and grandfathers who served in the military, and it is about keeping that connection alive for the younger generation to understand the importance of the appeal,” she remarked.

Private Brazier described meeting Ivy and presenting her with the historic poppy as “incredible” and a privilege. The 2026 Poppy Appeal launch has centered on the experiences and challenges faced by armed forces families supporting those who serve. In addition to the Manchester event, representatives from the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force distributed specially created poppies to service families in North Wales, Shropshire, and London.

Established in 1921, the Poppy Appeal remains a major fund-raising campaign aiming to collect over £50 million this year. The funds support serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Among the campaign’s high-profile supporters is actress Dame Joanna Lumley, whose father served as a major in the 6th Gurkha Rifles. Lumley highlighted the shared sacrifices made by military families and encouraged public participation in the appeal. “When someone serves, their loved ones share in the uncertainty, the time apart and the sacrifices that come with it,” she said. “Wearing a poppy is such a simple thing to do.”