Purple poppies were adopted by Murphy’s Campaign in 2016 to encourage members of the public to remember animals lost in the line of duty on Remembrance Sunday.

The charity's appeal was an overwhelming success, showing just how passionate members of the public felt about remembering the animals, alongside their human counterparts.

The charity’s founder Andy Smith said: “As an animal charity we strongly believe that animals lost whilst serving should be remembered. We want to acknowledge the sacrifices that they have made, and continue to make, and ensure they are not forgotten."

This year’s fundraising campaign will aid Fireside K9 who help retired police dogs in the West Yorkshire area where Murphy’s Army are based. The handmade purple poppies that attach with pins for humans and velcro for animals sold out before Remembrance Sunday this year due to their popularity.

Animal Aid initially launched its purple poppy initiative to commemorate the animal victims of war. Andrew Tyler, director of the charity, explained the change of emphasis for its animal victims of war initiative.

“Our aim was to make it clear that animals used in warfare are victims, not heroes. They do not give their lives; their lives are taken from them.

“But too often the narrative promoted by the media has been one of animals as the valiant servants of people in violent conflict. This is precisely the opposite message to that which we intended.

“We are, therefore, replacing the purple poppy with a purple paw badge that will commemorate all animal victims of human exploitation. It can be worn all year round – at special events or day to day.”