Popular Isle of Wight pub doing its bit for Poppy Appeal

Merrie Gardens Farm in Lake has embraced an initiative to support the Royal British Legion, adopted by its parent company Marston's.

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The pub will be selling limited edition commemorative pint and half-pint beer glasses, which are set to go on sale this Saturday (October 26).

(Image: Google Maps) The initiative, a collaboration between Marston's and The Royal British Legion, aims to raise thousands of pounds for the Poppy Appeal.

The specially designed glasses, are also available at 76 pubs across the South East. Merrie Gardens Farm is the only Isle of Wight pub participating in the fundraiser.

The Island pub also has a special 'Remembrance Wall' — a dedicated space to allow punters the opportunity to leave a photo, or write a message of remembrance for loved ones, who have served in the British forces, past and present. 

A Merrie Gardens Farm spokesperson said: "Until November 11, join us as we celebrate and honour our veterans. We’re honoured to showcase our remembrance wall this month.

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"We’re proud of our veterans, so be sure to join us and share your tributes."

The profits from the sale of the glasses will be used to provide support to veterans in need.

Remembrance Day in Ventnor last year. (Image: Isle of Wight County Press) Marston's has been a longstanding supporter of the veteran community — reaffirming its commitment, by re-signing the Armed Forces Covenant in February last year.

Many Marston's pubs are staffed or managed by ex-serving veterans.

The Poppy Appeal, which helps provide vital support to the veteran community, is launched annually ahead of Remembrance Sunday.

The Island pub's spokesperson added: "During this Poppy Appeal, were hosting a variety of events and fundraising activities for the whole family to get involved with, all in support of our veterans and the Royal British Legion, to show our appreciation for their service."

Commemorative pint glasses cost £2.50 and half-pints, £2, with all money made from their sales donated to the Poppy Appeal.