Two women from the Bradford district, separated by generations but united by service to their country, came together yesterday to help launch the 90th Poppy Appeal.

Connie Williams, aged 90, served as a corporal in the RAF from 1941 to 1947 while 28-year-old Leading Naval Nurse Sarah Butler served with the Navy in Afghanistan until 2009.

Both were presented with ceremonial poppies to mark the launch of the appeal in West Yorkshire and both would have been fully aware of its significance.

They know more than anybody how important it is to continue to remember and honour those who have fallen while serving and also to support those who continue to give their service in ongoing conflicts around the globe.

And they should serve as a reminder to all of us how important it is we all respect the memories of lost service men and women.

Miss Williams and LNN Butler will be among those wearing their poppies with pride over the next two weeks. A small donation of some sort and the display of the symbolic flower really isn’t a lot to ask. But it is important that buying a poppy should be more than just a gesture, something you feel you have to do.

Take the time to think about those who have made the ultimate sacrifice over the years. Remember those who have fallen, those who were injured physically or mentally by the trauma of armed conflict, the families left bereaved and broken, and those who continue to serve our country. And wear that powerful emblem with pride in their honour.