Prime Minister buys poppy outside Number 10 to support RBL centenary campaign

The Prime Minister has purchased his poppy outside 10 Downing Street, lending support to the Royal British Legion's centenary appeal.

The red flower – a common sight on the Western Front – became a symbol of remembrance for those killed in the First World War as the conflict drew to a close.

Boris Johnson was greeted at the door to Number 10 by five poppy appeal fundraisers.

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Founded in 1921, the Poppy Appeal raises funds for veterans, serving personnel and their families.

In a brief remark, the Prime Minister urged everyone to buy a "Remembrance symbol".

Watch: Prince Charles and Camilla launch Royal British Legion's centenary Poppy Appeal.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall launched the annual campaign at Clarence House on Thursday.

In a video posted later on Twitter, Mr Johnson said: "It's wonderful to see poppy sellers out on the streets again after last year when, of course, we weren't able to do it because of COVID restrictions.

"And the poppy is a huge part of our lives, but it's 100 years now since the foundation of the Royal British Legion and the whole concept of the Poppy Appeal.

"It's ever more vital that we show our commitment as a society to our armed services who sacrificed so much for us.

"Every poppy counts, so buy your poppy today," he added.

Tom Dempsey, an 84-year-old Army veteran, said it was "amazing" to sell a paper flower to the Prime Minister, who made his donation on a card machine.

"He just made it so relaxing, as if he was one of your family," Mr Dempsey said.

"We would appreciate anybody from anywhere, any walk of life, please come give us a hand," he added.

"We do well but we would love to do more."

Mr Dempsey, who served as a sergeant in the 151 (London) Transport Regiment, also said he is delighted to be back fundraising in the community after the pandemic put that on pause in 2020.

The Poppy Appeal tradition resumes this year in the run-up to Armistice Day, with the Royal British Legion expecting 40,000 collectors to distribute poppies across the country.