Finchley Fundraiser Awarded BEM for Poppy Appeal Work
Jennifer Thomas recognised for 62 years of dedication to the Royal British Legion.
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From the archive. This story was written up on 29 July 2026 from reporting first published on 15 July 2026, which is the date shown above. We took up the back catalogue of the local titles we read when this site launched, so the events are older than the page.
Jennifer Thomas, a resident of Finchley, has been honoured with the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours list. The award acknowledges her extensive charitable efforts, particularly her long-standing commitment to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
Decades of Dedication to the Poppy Appeal
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Ms Thomas, widely known in Finchley as 'The Poppy Lady', has dedicated 62 years to supporting the Poppy Appeal. In the most recent year, her fundraising efforts generated more than £12,000 for the cause. Her commitment to the Royal British Legion spans over six decades, a period during which she has also undertaken fundraising for animal welfare organisations.
This latest recognition builds on previous accolades for her community service. In 2015, Ms Thomas was presented with the London Borough of Barnet Civic Award, recognising her 50 years of contributions to the Royal British Legion.
Questions this report answers
+Who received the British Empire Medal and for what?
Jennifer Thomas received the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her 62 years of dedication to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. This honour recognises her long-standing fundraising efforts, including raising over £12,000 in the past year alone.
+How long has Jennifer Thomas been involved with the Poppy Appeal?
Jennifer Thomas has supported the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal for 62 years. Her commitment began decades ago and continues to this day, making her a well-known figure in Finchley as 'The Poppy Lady'.
+What other awards has Jennifer Thomas received?
Jennifer Thomas previously received the Barnet Civic Award in 2015. This award recognised her 50 years of contributions to the Royal British Legion, building on her decades of service.
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