Poppy sellers had another record year of collections.

Sellers in the Maldon area, covering Maldon, Heybridge, Latchingdon, Purleigh, Woodham Mortimer and Woodham Walter, raised more than £34,000 during this year’s appeal, increased from £29,500 last year.

Organiser Sholto Morton, 79, said: “The £34,000 which we have raised is a wonderful 15% up on what we had achieved last year.

“All our collectors commented on how generous everyone was.

“I am sure the centenary and the poppies at the Tower had an effect on the public’s imagination and their generosity.

“Those of us in the poppy team are all most grateful.”