WE would like to thank the public, shopkeepers, supermarkets and everyone who helped The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal this year. We have managed to raise £54,919.29 so far this year.

This money goes for the welfare and needs of our servicemen and women and their dependants and also the veterans up to the present day.

I would also like to give particular praise to Army Cadets Eastleigh, Army Cadets Fair Oak, 1216 Squadron ATC, and the 14th Eastleigh Scouts and Guide Band. They have all played a big part in collecting for The Poppy Appeal this year, sometimes in adverse weather conditions and they deserve a big thank you.

Thanks also to Eastleigh Borough Council for their help and allowing us to collect on the streets during this period. Many thanks to you all.

BETTY M. BROWN, Honorary Poppy Appeal Organiser.