ONCE again the people of Pershore and District have responded magnificently to The Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal by donating £8,979.86, exceeding last year's total by more than £1,100, and a record for the branch.

May I therefore thank the branch's sub-organisers, the collectors, shops, public houses, schools and supermarkets for their support. Thanks also to the church congregations, supporters of social events, and those who made donations for, and participated in, the laying of wreaths in Pershore Abbey at the War Memorial.

It is gratifying to know that, in these troubled times, the meaning of the Poppy has not been forgotten.

PHILIP J CUMMINS, Poppy Appeal Organiser, RBL, Pershore Branch, Cherry Orchard, Pershore.

MAY I thank everyone who helped in any way to make our street collection in Pershore on Saturday, December 1 such a success.

To those who contributed, many thanks for the £339.36 you gave which will help us to continue our service to the community, and may thanks to our volunteers who gave their time to collect this generous amount.

KATE WALTON, Pershore and District Voluntary Help Centre, Pershore.