HEXHAM'S Royal British Legion representative has launched an early poppy appeal.

Sean Ferguson, from Hexham, will collect donations in town from October 26 until November 11.

He said QR codes will be displayed on all Royal British Legion donation boxes to allow people to donate money for a poppy, while larger QR code posters will be placed in selected shops within Hexham, with a code specific for the Hexham area, to allow large or small donations.

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"We are always looking out for volunteer collectors to help expand the collections across Hexham and surrounding areas which include Allendale, Riding Mill, Warden, Fourstones, Newbrough, Whitfield, Henshaw, Acomb, Anick, Whitley Chapel and more. People can volunteer through our national website.

"We're also looking for local haulage firms to agree to purchase and 'sport' a lorry-size poppy all year round, on each of their vehicles, to remind people all year round of the work that the RBL do to support our soldiers and veterans. A car-size poppy is also available.

"Any organisation which has not already requested a wreath for Remembrance Sunday can contact myself to arrange this as soon as possible," he added.

The RBL's collection in June raised £501.

For more information, go to https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/.