A Blue Plaque commemorating the dedication of a Royal Air Force veteran and Poppy Appeal collector who spent 42 consecutive years raising funds for the Royal British Legion (RBL) was unveiled today (29th May 2026) in Worksop.
Jim Ruggles served in the Royal Air Force during the 1950s before becoming a Poppy Appeal volunteer, collecting for the RBL outside WH Smith on Bridge Place.
Jim started volunteering after seeing an advert in the Worksop Guardian and stood on the high street every November, no matter the weather.
Jim sadly passed away last year. However, due to his fundraising efforts helping many veterans in Bassetlaw and across the region, and as he became a recognisable and respected figure around Worksop, his remarkable contribution has been commemorated with a Blue Plaque displayed in the spot where he stood for 42 consecutive years.
Dave Tomlinson, Jim Ruggles’ son-in-law, spoke on behalf of the family: “As a family, we were all incredibly proud of Jim’s achievements. His time in the RAF shaped so much of who he was – disciplined, dedicated and always ready to help others. He became a familiar and much-respected figure during the Poppy Appeal for the people of Worksop and the wider district, and the community held him in great affection.
“Today’s Blue Plaque unveiling is a wonderful moment for us all and a fitting tribute to the service, commitment and kindness Jim showed throughout his life.”
Alongside Jim Ruggles’ family, the event was also attended by Royal British Legion National Trustee Neil James, Nottinghamshire Royal British Legion President Alex Peace-Gadsby, the Worksop Royal British Legion Branch Standards, local veterans, and the Bassetlaw District councillors whose grant funded the plaque.
Chair of the Council, Cllr Sybil Fielding, unveiled the plaque with Jim’s eldest daughter, Eliane.
Cllr Sybil Fielding, Chair of Bassetlaw District Council and Armed Forces Champion, said: “It is a privilege to honour Jim Ruggles with a Blue Plaque in recognition of his remarkable service and dedication. His commitment to both his country and his community embodies the very best of our Armed Forces family. Jim’s contribution will be remembered for generations, and today’s unveiling is a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much of himself in support of others.”
Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, Cllr Julie Leigh, added: “Jim Ruggles’ dedication to both his community and the Armed Forces family is truly inspirational. His service, his compassion and his unwavering commitment to supporting others have left a legacy that will continue to resonate across Bassetlaw for many years to come.
“Today’s Blue Plaque unveiling is not only a celebration of Jim’s life but also a reminder of the powerful difference one individual can make through kindness, service and community spirit.”
The councillors who contributed towards the Blue Plaque are: Cllr Julie Leigh, Cllr Paddy Ducey and Cllr Tony Eaton, Ward Members for Worksop South; Cllr David Pressley, Ward Member for Worksop North West; Cllr Steve Scotthorne, Ward Member for Carlton; and Cllr Gill Freeman, Ward Member for Langold.
The RBL’s support is a lifeline for thousands of serving and ex-serving personnel and their families. Across Bassetlaw, the RBL has branches in Worksop and Retford. To find out more, visit: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk
Each Bassetlaw District councillor is allocated a small annual budget and has the discretion to award grants to support community activities within their ward. Councillor grants may support projects related to sport, culture and heritage, environmental sustainability, social welfare and general community benefit.
