The Royal British Legion has launched its annual Poppy Appeal for Northern Ireland at Brooke House in County Fermanagh.

Brooke House, located in the grounds of Colebrooke Park, provides treatment for military and police veterans with psychological and physical conditions. It was chosen as the venue for the launch.

The event was attended by veterans from every county in Northern Ireland. Representatives from the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Army, Royal Marines, Ulster Defence Regiment, and Royal Irish Regiment were present.

Those attending had served in conflicts including the Falklands, Sierra Leone, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Kosovo, and Northern Ireland.

Joan Clements, chief executive of Brooke House, said the centre was honoured to host the launch. She outlined the services offered, including psychological support, pain management, physiotherapy, acupuncture, complementary therapy, and nature based, music, equine, and art therapies.

Ms Clements said Brooke House has assisted more than 1,000 veterans and their families since it was established in 2018. The centre is a registered charity and is accredited by the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

Lucy Inskip, director of the Poppy Appeal at the Royal British Legion, said the annual appeal brings the nation together and raises vital funds to support the Armed Forces community. She encouraged the public to show their support, stating that donations enable the RBL to help the Armed Forces and their families, from short-term relief to lifelong support.