POPPY Appeal organisers in Bury have thanked generous members of the public who helped them raise more than £70,000 this year.

This year's appeal in the area covering Bury, Walshaw, Tottington, and Ainsworth surpassed all expectations, collecting a total of £71,289.34, an increase of more than £9,000 on the previous year.

Lieutenant Colonel Eric Davidson MBE, the honorary Poppy Appeal organiser for the district, said: "I would like to express my personal thanks and those also of The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, for such generous donations by the great British public.

"None of this would be possible without my willing band of volunteers who number around 60 and who support the Appeal year on year in all sorts of weather. Special mention to all the Cadets of the Armed Forces who this year raised £8,440.86 between them.

"Thank you to all the large corporate outlets and shopping centres who permit the use of their premises for static manned collections, together with the 500-plus schools, clubs, and shops who accept collecting boxes during the appeal period.

"This a wonderful achievement for which I am most grateful to all concerned."

One of Bury’s most respected military figures, Col Davidson was given his MBE in 2008 in recognition of his tireless devotion to voluntary work across the borough. He was also honoured with the Freedom of the Borough of Bury earlier this year.

He has also thanked the people of Bury for their support for this year's Remembrance Day service, for which he acted as parade marshal.

Col Davidson added: "May I also thank the public for their support in recognising the importance of the occasion at our Town Memorial. Year on year the numbers increase to pay respect and homage on this very special day. Wreaths placed on the Memorial increase each year in recognition of a life given or taken.

"The participants in the parade each year increase and show their loyal support to the town and its history. Particular recognition goes to the children who attend in their youth movements and the bands who with their musical ability enrich the flavour of the occasion.

"I am a very proud citizen to be part of the management team who look after the Poppy Appeal and the local authority parade and church service. May we go from strength to strength in future years."