New poppy appeal record

Impressive total: Town crier Colin Ballard, St Annes town mayor Coun Ed Nash and his wife, Fylde councillor Barbara Nash at the launch the 2014 poppy appeal for Lytham and St Annes

Generous donations have helped puppy appeal fundraisers reach a record-breaking total.

The Royal British Legion poppy appeal in Lytham and St Annes has achieved its hightest total ever.

With more cash still expected to come in, the appeal in the centenary year of the outbreak of the First World War has already topped £38,000, bettering last year’s total, itself a record, by £5,000.

“Thanks so much to everyone for their contributions,” said Spencer Leader, poppy appeal organiser and president of the St Annes branch of the Legion.

“So many people have shown such great support and generosity each year, along with the local businesses, schools, churches, other organisations. and the wonderful people who volunteer to collect the donations throughout the fortnight before Remembrance Sunday.

“What a great tribute to all those who have served our country so well, from 1914 and are continuing to do so to the present day.

“The Legion spends nearly £1.4 million a week delivering health and welfare support and this money allows for the provision of practical support and advice to service personnel, past and present, and their families.”