THOUSANDS of pounds have been donated to the Royal British Legion (RBL) by a garden centre in Worcester.

Staff at St Peter's Garden Centre, in Norton Road, donated £6,000 to the RBL's Poppy Appeal, which supports veterans of the armed forces.

Nick Martin, community fundraiser for the Poppy Appeal in Worcestershire, said: "Although the Poppy Appeal raises millions of pounds during Remembrance tide, the increasing numbers of welfare cases and in the increased financial demands on the Poppy Appeal make it so important that generous donations from companies like St Peter’s Garden Centre continue to support us throughout the year.

"We are very grateful to William Blake, general manager at St Peter’s for organising the donations from the sales of cast iron poppy bird feeders throughout the winter."

The donation will help the Legion to help serving personnel, veterans and their families.

William Blake, general manager at the garden centre, said: "The Legion does amazing work and St Peter’s Garden Centre, along with our supportive customers, are proud to be involved with the campaign and raise such an amazing figure to such a worthy cause.

"Most people are familiar with the poppy as a symbol of remembrance, but its original meaning was also one of hope for the future.

"Hope to live on in more positive and independent lives after going through tough times, and it is hope the Legion provides to those in the armed forces community.

"Every donation received will make a real difference to the lives of service men and women, veterans and their loved ones."

If you would like to raise money for the RBL call Mr Martin on 020 3053 7055, 07721 432921 or email nmartin@britishlegion.org.uk