FOR the past four years, the Poppy Appeal for the Okehampton area has consistently increased the amount collected.

A total of £14,309.20 has been raised during 2009 and 2010, with the Lifton Poppy Appeal raising £1,134.18.

It is hoped that additional donations, including tax reclaimed on gift aided donations, could bring the final figure to more than £16,000, before the appeal period closes at the end of September.

The support for the appeal in and around Okehampton, as well as Lifton — both from businesses and individuals — is a reflexion of the public's interest and concern for the well-being of the ex-service community.

Poppy Appeal organiser for Okehampton, Val Hoar, expressed thanks to those who have helped support the charity.

She said: 'I would like to thank Somerfields for looking after our volunteers.

'Waitrose also arranged for collecting tins and poppies on every till as well as selecting the Okehampton branch of the Royal British Legion for its Community Matters scheme, which raised an additional £234.

'None of this would be possible without the wonderful support of our Poppy Appeal collectors and volunteers who deliver supplies and collect and count the money,' said Mrs Hoar.

Okehampton Post Office in George Street provided a wreath display, while Okehampton Rotary Club's annual Remembrance Day Service raised £178.95.

Collections in the surrounding villages, Exbourne, Jacobstowe, Sampford Courtenay, Belstone, Bridestowe, Lydford and Sourton, as well as donations, including church collections, contributed in excess of £3,800.

The Royal British Legion will be on hand at the Rotary Club's annual May Fair to give information about the work the legion does for the ex-servicemen and women and their dependents in Devon.

There will also be a selection of items for sale, all in aid of the Poppy Appeal.

The May Fair will be held on Sunday, May 2 from 9am until 3pm in Simmons Park.