I WOULD like to report that, thanks to the generosity of the good people of Tavistock and surrounding areas, the 2011 Poppy Appeal has raised £11,272.

This is thanks in no small part to the efforts of our Poppy Appeal organiser, Mrs Sheila Allen, who works tirelessly throughout the year, organising the poppies and wreaths, getting them distributed, then getting the collecting boxes returned, counting the contents, banking the money, sending out receipts and forwarding the cheque to headquarters — no small feat.

Thanks also to the outlets who display the poppies.

However, none of us are getting any younger and Sheila would be very grateful if anyone would be willing to help during the Poppy Appeal period.

Anyone interested in helping could ring me on 01822 613605 or the Tavy Club on 01822 612489. Any help, no matter how small, would be very much appreciated.

On the same theme the branch committee is getting smaller — and older — so anyone willing to serve on the committee should ring on either of the two numbers above. I must emphasise that you do not have to have been in the armed forces to serve on the branch committee.

The main function of the branch is welfare. We are non-political and non-racist, understanding that we all have an equally important and valued part to play.

Jack May

Branch secretary