ROYAL Marines abseiled through poppy petals at a James Bond-themed extravaganza to launch the Royal British Legion’s poppy appeal.

An electric string band filled the WestQuay Centre in Southampton with Bond music and crowds cheered the soldiers on as they flew down their ropes.

Last year the generosity of the public helped the legion answer more than 450,000 calls for help and the money raised goes to help serving personnel, veterans and their families, including innovative dementia care and world-leading research.

Community fundraiser Claire Peppiatt said: “The poppy is a wonderful symbol which is worn to commemorate the sacrifices of our armed forces and to show support to those still serving today and their loved ones.

“All three services will be collecting around WestQuay and we hope the public come and get the first poppies from them.”

The legion says its work is encapsulated in the motto “live on”, which encourages people to cherish their memories of the fallen and look forward to the future of living.

David Moore, Hampshire north community fundraiser, said: “This year we want everyone to uncover the story behind the poppy and learn how your donation helps today’s armed forces community.”