THE Poppy Appeal Organiser for Crediton has expressed thanks to all who helped or donated to the 2025 Poppy Appeal locally, which has raised a record amount for the Royal British Legion Appeal.

Jane Sansom explained: “The National RBL Poppy Appeal is launched each year on the last Thursday of October and lasts a full year not just for the November Remembrance period.

“So far this year's Appeal for Crediton and Hamlets has raised a record, amazing amount of £16,517.97!

“A massive thank you goes to each and everyone involved for making this possible, from individuals, organisations and businesses.

“Crediton area is included under the North Devon District which overall has had an increase of contactless donations of £35,000. We will be using contactless again in the future and promoting scan code donations (on mobiles) which is the same as contactless.

“An additional thank you, goes to all the crafters who made poppies including purple ones for the remembrance of animals.

“These are placed at the supermarkets, community shops and in local shops, an invaluable amount of donations are received from these items.

“Stocks are welcome throughout the year (pins and yarn can be supplied) and can be dropped off at Le Roy Funerals High Street, Crediton.”

The Poppy Appeal is the Royal British Legion’s flagship campaign held every year in October and November.

Founded in 1921, the Appeal raises funds for the Legion’s vital work supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families throughout their lives with whatever the need, whenever it’s needed.

Its support to those in need is made possible by the generous donations of the public and the 50,000 Poppy Appeal collectors and volunteers who dedicate their time each year to helping fundraise across the country.

There are more than two million Armed Forces veterans living in the UK.