Saturday’s fixture against Millwall at Deepdale will be our Armed Forces and Remembrance fixture, as we honour those who serve or have served their lives in battle.
The teams will emerge from the tunnel slightly earlier than usual, with current serving military personnel from the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment leading the teams through a guard of honour, taking the match ball and a wreath to the centre circle.
A period of silence will then be held before the game, followed by The Last Post being played by a serviceman at pitchside.
Supporters are encouraged to arrive at the ground and to take their seats as early as possible ahead of these activities.
The players will also bear the poppy on their shirts during the game, and those matchworn and match-issued shirts will become available to bid on in a live auction straight from kick-off, with the proceeds going to the Royal British Legion.
The poppy is the enduring symbol of remembrance for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and also for those who continue to defend and improve our way of life today. This resilient flower flourished in the midst of destruction, becoming a symbol of hope and a peaceful future.
Preston North End Community and Education Trust have distributed around 300 tickets for the game to those linked to the Armed Forces community, including members of the PNE Forces programme who have been invited to take part in the half-time penalty shootout alongside children from Fulwood Barracks.
The PNE Forces programme runs a free weekly football session every Wednesday evening for past and present members of the military and their families. Participants also have the opportunity to represent the Trust in regional tournaments such as the North West Veterans’ League.
For more information about our PNE Forces provision, please email alistair.white@pne.com.
There will also be Royal Air Force Cadets collecting in and around the ground on behalf of Royal British Legion, so please consider donating if you are able to.