With 100 days until the annual Poppy Appeal, the Royal British Legion (RBL) is calling for fresh volunteers.

Volunteers are needed in County Durham, Northumberland, and Tyne & Wear to support the charity's efforts in raising essential funds for veterans, active military personnel, and their families.

The RBL relies on the dedication of over 3,500 volunteers every year to ensure the success of the Poppy Appeal throughout the UK.

This year's Remembrance poppy is completely plastic-free and easily recyclable.

These new poppies will be sold alongside the traditional ones.

Last year in Northumberland alone, the charity was able to extend assistance to over 800 individuals.

This support ranged from providing mental health assistance, aiding in the process of recovery, offering guidance on securing employment, housing support, and helping manage the cost of living.

The charity issued grants amounting to almost half a million pounds.

Vera Parnaby, an 84-year-old volunteer who has dedicated more than seven decades to the cause, has raised an impressive sum exceeding £1 million.

Reflecting on her experiences, Vera shared: "When I first started, I would go door-to-door with my mother, brothers, and sister.

"My mother did this her whole life, and we have continued the tradition ever since.

"Even my great-grandson joins us to help."

Lisa Tempest-Hall, a Community Fundraiser for the Royal British Legion in the Northeast, is encouraging anyone interested in volunteering to get in touch.

The RBL are also keen to hear from anyone who would like to become Poppy Appeal Organisers in the region.

Interested individuals can visit: rbl.org.uk/poppyappealvolunteer