Colchester United hosted the Colchester Poppy Appeal Launch on Saturday.
The launch took place before the match with Scunthorpe United and begins the two-week appeal period ending on Remembrance Sunday on the 14th November.
Joining the Mayor Cllr Robert Davidson and U's Chairman Robbie Cowling at the launch were the Garrison Commander Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, High Steward Sir Bob Russell, and Colchester MP Will Quince.
As well as the Poppy Launch, the game was used as the club's Remembrance game.
Before kick-off, an Act of Remembrance was held pitchside with the Last Post being played, wreaths laid and players, staff and fans of both clubs impeccably observing in a minute's silence.
President of the Colchester Branch of the Royal British Legion, Fred Woolhouse, said: "This year is the Centenary of both the Royal British Legion and the Colchester branch forming."
"I must thank Colchester United for hosting today’s very special launch for us. As a Garrison town, we are fortunate to have such close bonds with the military.
"The fantastic generosity of the community and United fans during the appeal period is something that sets Colchester apart and will contribute to the £100,000 target the Branch set for itself this year.
"Money raised locally enables the Legion to continue its vital work delivering lifelong support to Service and ex-Service personnel and their families through hardships, injuries, and bereavement."
Colchester United’s General Manager, Tim Waddington added: "It’s a privilege for the club to work with the Garrison and Royal British Legion and host the launch of this year’s Colchester Poppy Appeal."
"We have always been proud of being in a Garrison town and supporting the troops that serve our country across the globe, and will continue to strengthen the links between the club and the Garrison."
Poppies can be bought around Colchester in supermarkets, shops and at the Red Lion Walk Shopping Centre with a range of payment options from cash, contactless, text or web.
For more information and fundraising ideas visit https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/poppy-appeal