THIS year's poppy appeal has been launched in Sunderland.

The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alan Emerson, got the appeal underway by buying the first poppy from volunteers from the Royal British Legion.

Cllr Emerson welcomed Sunderland branch representatives and helpers from the national charity to the Civic Centre for the launch of this year's fundraising effort.

He said: "It is an honour as mayor of Sunderland to buy the symbolic 'first poppy' to help launch this year's fundraising appeal.

"Our city has a strong military tradition and is proud to support our servicemen and women past and present. With more than 26,000 people with service records and their families living in Sunderland, our community have one of the highest percentages of veterans as residents in the country.

"Each and every one is deserving of our continued help and support, and all the money raised from poppy sales in the city goes toward providing just that.

"I'd invite everyone to buy one and wear it with pride as Remembrance weekend approaches."

Vince Harris, chairman of the Sunderland branch of the Royal British Legion, said: "It means a great deal to us that the mayor of Sunderland helps launch our annual appeal, it's a tremendous gesture on behalf of the whole city.

"Every penny raised is used to help those and their families who have served and are serving in our armed forces, as a reminder that we will never forget the sacrifices made on all our behalf."

Last year the Sunderland branch raised more than £88,000.