The Harrogate branch of the Royal British Legion has issued a plea for volunteers to help with this year's appeal.

Chairman Mike Comerford said the branch needed six to eight people to distribute poppies and collection tins as well as to take part in street collections.

Poppies were due to start going up in Harrogate today ahead of Remembrance Sunday on November 12. Ripon already has a magnificent display.

Mr Comerford said there was a shortage of volunteers this year because some regular helpers were either too old or unwell to give as much time.

He said volunteers who could drive were required from tomorrow (Tuesday) to distribute the poppies and collection tins on prescribed routes.

Street collections begin on Saturday (October 28) but shops can sell poppies before then.

Six hundred boxes, each containing 150 poppies, are distributed as part of Harrogate's poppy appeal.

The poppy appeal provides support for members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families.

The town raised about £50,000 of the £48 million generated nationally by the Royal British Legion last year.

Anyone interested in helping can call Mr Comerford on 07954125891 or email him at mike.comerford@ntlworld.com.

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