A new shop has opened in the city to help people honour the heroes of wars past and present by wearing a small symbol of their respect – a poppy.

The Royal British Legion poppy shop, which was opened yesterday in the former Zavvi store at the entrance to Castle Mall by Sherriff Derek James, aims to raise money for the 'Afghan generation' of the armed forces and their families. Mr James said: 'A poppy is such a moving and poignant symbol of remembrance which sends out a clear message – we do care. On behalf of the city I would like to congratulate the Norwich branch of the Royal British Legion and everyone connected with the Poppy Appeal for all their hard work. Today our thoughts are with the families and friends of those killed and wounded in Afghanistan and this war has also thrown the spotlight on the veterans from the Second World War, now in their 80s and 90s, who fought so hard and bravely for the freedom we take for granted today.

'I hope all the people of Norwich and all those who visit the city give as much as they can afford to buy a poppy and wear it with pride.

'We have worn the poppy for almost 90 years and I hope that in 2010 more people than ever before will want to wear it.'

The shop will be open from 10am to 4pm until Saturday, November 13.