AT the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.

In today’s time-famished world, few of us are able to take the sentiments expressed in Laurence Binyon’s poignant 1914 poem literally.

But we should remember at every opportunity, not to glorify war but to honour the sacrifices made by so many on our behalf, many of them our own ancestors.

Such an opportunity presents itself today, with the launch of the 2014 Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

It has added significance in this, the centenary year of the start of the First World War, a hideous conflict featuring slaughter on an industrial scale.

Sad to say, we haven’t entirely learned our lessons, as British servicemen and women are still facing death or disfigurement today.

So while remembrance forms an important part of the Poppy Appeal, the money it raises is equally important and this year the Oxfordshire target is a record £500,000.

It goes to help servicemen and women of all ages who have fallen on hard times or are living with injuries sustained during the course of their careers.

Knowing that means we can all wear our poppies with pride.

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