Dedicated poppy collectors have racked up hundreds of years of raising money for the armed forces.

Veterans and Royal British Legion volunteers are now urging younger residents to lend a hand as long-serving collectors are stepping down, including Ken Kippen, 91.

Mr Kippen, of Cressing Road, Braintree, first became involved in 1990.

Keith Shoat, 81, of Keeble Way, Braintree, is now believed to be Braintree’s longest-serving poppy collector after amassing 60 years at the money tin.

Mr Shoat, a former employee at the old Black Notley Hospital, said: “I have definitely noticed the appeal going from strength to strength.

“It seems to be better each year with the public, especially the children coming up to me and giving me their pennies.

“It’s better this year because it is the centenary of the First World War.”

Mr Shoat joined the Royal British Legion because his relatives were also members.

He said: “I have always enjoyed doing it. I get to meet lots of lovely people."

See this week's Braintree and Witham Times for the full story.