REMEMBRANCE Day is fast approaching and one Somerset resident found an unusual way to help.
Melanie Reid, from Cheddar, has been making poppy patterned face masks to raise money for the SSAFA, the armed forces charity.
“I was looking for a charity to donate to with an Armed Forces connection this was the one that caught my eye - as SSAFA does so many things to support veterans from welfare to choirs,” said Ms Reid.
SSAFA has been providing lifelong support to the forces and their families since 1885. The charity supports the currently serving both regulars and reserves, veterans, and their families.
In 2019, volunteers and employees from the charity helped more than 85,000 people in need.
A spokesperson from SSAFA Somerset said: “SSAFA Somerset is delighted to have Melanie's support during this special time, when we remember all our Armed Forces on Remembrance Day.
"Her beautiful masks are unique and poignant and we are so grateful that Melanie thought of SSAFA, especially this year. Thank you from us all in Somerset.
"It is important this year that we continue to remember and support the Armed Forces community as we approach Remembrance Day – even if this year is different for so many reasons.”
Ms Reid studied graphic design at Farnborough College in 1990, but she finally decided to turn her passion into a career in 2008.
She now works from her studio in Somerset and sells her artwork online.
To find out more about the artist visit melreid.co.uk
Each mask costs £8.50 plus postage and 50% will be donated to the charity.
To buy a mask visit numonday.com/product/remembrance-day-ssafa-charity-poppy-face-mask/
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