THE Darlington Poppy Appeal was launched yesterday by the town's mayor.

Councillor Isobel Hartley congratulated Royal British Legion members and other ex-service people at the launch, for their work. She then accepted a collection box for the town hall.

The appeal runs from October 27 to November 10 in Darlington and the surrounding area, with all money going to servicemen and women and their families. Last year the Darlington appeal raised £32,245, which beat the previous year's total of £27,127.

Lilian Wiegold, organiser for the Darlington and District branch of the Poppy Appeal said: "In order for us to raise even more cash this year, we really need volunteers to help with street collections on November 9 and 10."

To help contact (01325) 313799