DUDLEY residents have dug deep to help raise £22.424.09 for the town’s annual poppy appeal.

The Dudley branch of the Royal British Legion organised poppy sales and collections in town centre shops, businesses and schools – tripling the amount raised three years ago.

Branch chairman Malcolm Davis, who also organises the annual appeal, said: “Without doubt people were even more generous than usual.

“Special thanks must also go to the few collectors that helped so much towards this outstanding achievement in our endeavour to help support the needs of the injured and families of the dead from our fighting services.”

Mr Davis also urged younger members to consider joining the branch in order to continue its successes.

For more information contact Mr Davis on 01384 866634.