Wantage residents helped raise a record amount for ex-servicemen and their families this year.

Poppy Appeal collectors in the town raised almost £7,000 for the Royal British Legion appeal during the fortnight before Remembrance Sunday.

The £6,926.12 total, represents a six per cent increase on last year's figure.

Group Captain David Drew, the Poppy Appeal Organiser for Wantage, thanked members for their hard work. Lieutenant Colonel John Regan described the work being carried out in the county for ex-servicemen and their families, and presented certificates and badges to collectors.

Robert Newton received a certificate for having collected money for more than a decade.

He has raised more than £22,000.

Vic Brown, a former Poppy Appeal organiser for Wantage, was awarded a medal for 35 years service to the appeal.

Jenny Hannaby, mayor of Wantage and president of Wantage RBL, presented a branch certificate of appreciation to Bob Hollister for his work as parade marshal for the Wantage Remembrance Sunday parade.

Anyone who wants to help with the 2004 Poppy Appeal is asked to contact David Drew on 01235 835213.