POPPY appeal organisers are asking for new members to help them equal last year’s fundraising when they made over £9,350 and maintain the Remembrance Day parade.

Bedale Branch Secretary Graham Morris said nationally over £43m had been raised and they had been overwhelmed by the generosity and reaction locally.

Mr Morris said: “We want to thank everyone who made donations and who attend the weekly domino drive at the Riverside club in Bedale which provides essential branch funds.

“The future of the branch and indeed the Remembrance Sunday parade will be at risk if we don’t get new branch committee members, so we urge ex-forces members to get involved. “

The Royal British Legion branch is working with the town council to create a Field of Remembrance next to St Gregory’s churchyard where local people can remember those that have suffered as a result of past conflicts. It’s hoped this can become an integral part of the remembrance day service at the War Memorial and the aim is to dedicate the Field at this year’s ceremony with any support welcome for the building work.

To contact go to www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/bedale/branch-information or Mr Morris on 07561 402074 email Grahammorris2@gmail.com)