The sound of bagpipes and the red of poppies filled La Cala once again on Saturday 4th of October. For the second consecutive year, the Royal British Legion chose the coastal town of Mijas to hold its traditional parade, a solemn event marking the start of the Poppy Appeal campaign in memory of those who have fallen in combat since the First World War.

The day, part of the Foreigners' Department's autumn programme, began punctually at 14 hours in La Butibamba Park. From there, veterans, members of the Legion and a procession of motorcycles and classic cars toured the main streets of La Cala, concluding in a wreath-laying ceremony at El Torreón. According to the councillor for Foreigners, Mario Bravo (PP), the choice of this location is no coincidence: “The floral tribute is made here because it was at this point that British soldiers landed and later fought the battle near the hillside of Fuengirola Castle against the French and Poles".

 

Aid and reparation

The aim of the parade goes beyond remembrance; it is also a charity campaign to raise funds. "Every year we have a month to raise money, primarily with the poppy theme. We sell poppies worldwide and raise funds to help veterans and military personnel with mental and physical injuries", said the president of the Royal British Legion in South Spain, Neal Toplis.

 

The event is also an example of the coexistence and integration of the different cultures that enrich Mijas. "That's the beauty of what we do through the Foreigners Department, creating links, supporting integration and also helping explain the customs of each nationality", said the technician of the department, Katja Thirion.

 

For many attendees, the parade holds deep personal and family significance. “It’s very important to me. I’ve been taking part since I was eight years old. My whole family is British, and for us it really means a lot”, shared Abigail Jorja Parkin, a young attendee at the event.

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