THE RICHMOND branch of the Royal British Legion has held its annual Poppy Appeal dinner to celebrate a successful year.

Peter Fowler, local Poppy Appeal organiser, announced the branch raised almost £17,000 at the dinner at Richmond Cricket Club.

Guest speaker for the evening was Lieutenant Colonel Mark Steed, former Garrison Commander, and he also presented service awards to several members. Alan and Phyllis Gilbert both received 40 year medals, Roland Bramham received his 15 year badge and Keith Gee, Peter Fowler, Bob White, Moira White all received their 10 year certificates.

WO1 Steve McKinley, the Garrison Sergeant Major, presented the branch trophies for highest individual collector to Mr Roland Bramham.

Chairman Bob White said “It may look easy to stand out in the cold for a few days selling poppies but there is months of planning for the Poppy Appeal and Remembrance weekend, all of which is a credit to the branch.”