Remembrance Sunday traditions are as strong as ever, and maybe more important than ever, according to volunteers.

For decades people have worn a poppy to show their support for those who have fought for the country as well as raising vital funds for the Royal British Legion.

In 1921, the first ever Poppy Appeal distributed nine million poppies, raising £106,000.

And almost 100 years on, the poppy is still prevalent within society, as sales boom to young and old alike.

Frank Carter, who has been volunteering in Billericay’s Waitrose, said: “I would say sales are average for this store, but then again this store is always above average which is tremendous.

“These are old traditions, which are still very prominent today. It is so encouraging to see the younger generations really contributing and engaging, as well as the older ones.

“Its nice that people bring their children, they are always interested, but then we can make the children aware of what did happen all those years ago, and why we do this.

“So many people sacrificed their lives in both World Wars, and many conflicts since then, so it is good that the Royal British Legion can do what they do to help people affected by wars.”

With constant division across the country, in terms of politics and class, Frank believes Remembrance Sunday is more important than ever as people are united for a common cause Frank added: “Things like Remembrance Sunday probably are more important than ever.

“People do not have much confidence in the powers that be in this country.

“There is so much division, but you see everyone come together for Remembrance Sunday.

“It is a worthy tradition that will continue for many years to come. A am absolutely sure of that.”

Beatrice Robinson, 79, who has been volunteering in Tesco’s Mayflower store in Basildon, reaffirmed Frank’s views, highlighting that despite the hard work, this is one of her favourite times of the year.

She has been selling poppies in supermarkets for the last five years in the build up to Remembrance Sunday.

Her father fought in the First World War, and she believes sharing the stories he told her are the best form of education for today’s youth, although she reserved some criticism for the powers that be as wars rage across the world, stating lessons haven’t be learnt from former sacrifices.

Beatrice said: “Genuinely, this is one of my favourite times of the year.

“Of course it is horribly sad but we have to remember the sacrifices that our veterans made.

“And it is always fantastic to see communities come together as one.

“My dad fought in the First World War, and was always very proud of that.

“Some of his stories were truly horrible, but it is important that they are told.

“Its heartbreaking to see how many wars we still have around the world, and that lessons haven’t be learnt from the huge sacrifices that our veterans gave.

“But is is vitally important we remember them, as well as continuing to educate younger generations on the importance of Remembrance Sunday.

“It is hugely pleasing to see the way kids interact with us.

“The younger ones always have loads of questions, and although they learn about both World Wars at school, this teaches them a more personal side to the story.”