THE nature of people?s giving has been praised by a remarkable man from Spreyton. Francis Gillard, aged 71, lives in Spreyton and has been collecting money for the Poppy Appeal for the last 16 years. He originally began collecting as part of the Bowland District British Legion. He goes door to door, selling poppies, in Spreyton and the surrounding areas. Often, when people are not in, he posts two poppies through the door, with the recipients then donating money at a later date. He said that he is constantly amazed by the nature of people?s giving. At one point this year, his tin was so full, he couldn?t fit any more money in. He would also like to extend a vote of thanks to everyone who contributed to the Poppy Appeal. Mr Gillard raised, on his own, a total of £593.83 for this year?s Poppy Appeal. In the 16 years he has been collecting money for the Poppy Appeal, Mr Gillard has raised a staggering £4,229.14.
