A RECORD total was raised by residents and businesses of a North Yorkshire town during this year's Poppy Appeal.

In Richmond, £10,286 was collected, £2,418 more than last year.

Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal organiser David Johnson attributed the success to the teamwork and hard work of volunteers.

The total means the branch has achieved its ambition of raising £1 per head for the town's population, years ahead of schedule.

Mr Johnson said: "This year has proved to be very successful for this worthy cause, which helps so many people who have served their country.

"The kind generosity of the people of Richmond and surrounding villages has been an inspiration and the enthusiasm of the schoolchildren to this charity was most appreciated."

The top fundraisers were: Andy Muckle, Co-op stall, £777; Roland Bramham, market stall, £704; Army Cadet Force, £490; St Mary's Church, £481; Royal British Legion coffee morning, £418. The best individual collector was Moira White, with £275; best Army cadet, Cadet Twist, £92; best pub, Golden Lion, £68; best bank, Barclays, £75; best hotel, King's Head, £64.