Footballers were confronted with a giant poppy at Watford FC’s training ground for the launch of he Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.

In the year that marks 100 years since the birth of the poppy as a symbol of Remembrance and hope, a call to action came from Watford’s players, personnel from the Nato base at Northwood and Community Fundraiser Natasha Robertson.

Dressed as the giant poppy, Natasha said: "As we mark the Centenary of the First World War, it’s as important as ever to wear a poppy and remember the sacrifices and commitment made by our Armed Forces both then and now.

"The message behind this year’s Poppy Appeal is Live On – to the memory of the fallen and future of the living, which captures perfectly why it’s so important to donate to the appeal and wear a poppy.

"Every donation received will make a real difference to the lives of Service men and women, veterans and their loved ones."

The fundraising target in Hertfordshire is £800,000 which will go towards the Legion’s national target of £40 million to continue its vital work delivering practical help, through life care and support to the Armed Forces community.

A spokesman for Watford FC said: "The players and staff are truly honoured to be supporting The Royal British Legion throughout this season, with the club donating £1 to the RBL when supporters purchase any item of away replica kit.

"The black and white striped away kit – a tribute to the club’s colours of 1914, 100 years ago when the First World War began – will be worn at Watford’s November 1 fixture, their nearest home game to Remembrance Sunday."

The Royal British Legion will be collecting at that game and the club will be running Poppy Appeal adverts on its big screen throughout the match.

Natasha added: "We’re encouraging people to dig deep for this year’s Poppy Appeal to help us raise £40 million, so we can continue providing our vital support to individuals whether they’re still serving, transitioning back to civilian life or have left the Services, and importantly their families too.

"A huge thanks to Watford Football Club for their generosity and support and to the staff at Northwood who have also been fundraising for our Poppy Appeal and earlier in the month organised a sponsored sporting challenge event on our behalf."