103-year-old Dunkirk veteran isolating in Chapel boosts Poppy Appeal through birthday request online

Derek Eley was determined to continue his mission to collect money for The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal that he began at the end of the Second World War.

Self-Isolation at home this year prevented Derek from collecting at Morrisons supermarket in Chapel which he has done for around two decades since door to door collections for the appeal ceased.

Instead, he asked for donations on the internet. On his JustGiving page, Derek wrote: “For my 103rd birthday I'm raising money for The Royal British Legion because for some, service comes at great cost.”

He hoped to raise £103 and did so with the first donation. Up to press, the donations stand at £639.

The appeal has been boosted by more than £230 contained in dozens of greetings cards that were collected and delivered by members of the C hapel branch of The Royal British Legion where Derek is president.

Branch committee member Helen Capell read some of the cards to Derek when she dropped them off at his house. Helen said: “Verity’s playgroup made a card with poppies on it and some of the schoolchildren had made up poems which was lovely.”

Derek said: “I’ve had pretty much getting on for 100 cards. I feel very honoured and am very grateful. I've got a street in Chapel named after me and I've just been given the freedom of Chapel so I must be liked a bit.”

He has been isolating since March but keeps himself active by walking around his garden twice a day. Believed to be England’s oldest football fan, Derek is missing going to matches played by his beloved Derby County.

Lilly Clements, community fundraiser for The Royal British Legion in Derbyshire, said: “The Legion’s work is more vital than ever as we support our community struggling with social isolation, financial difficulties and unemployment, to those who have lost loved ones or are facing the threat of homelessness.”

To donate to Derek’s appeal, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/derekeley-bday?

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