THE Royal British Legion launched the Trowbridge Poppy Appeal on Tuesday.

A vintage bus and a live band entertained shoppers as they walked through the town.

The Bikers Branch of the Royal British Legion joined the bus along with three Second World War vehicles including a Jeep. This convoy will embark on a six-day tour of Wiltshire.

Major R.W Naesmyth presented town mayor Nick Blakemore with Trowbridge's first poppy at the launch of the appeal.

The Wiltshire representative of the Royal British Legion's Riders Branch, Angie Lawrence was there with two other bikers.

The rider's branch started in 2004 as an ex-services motorcycle club to promote the Royal British Legion's good causes.

The branch has 721 members and has helped to raise £6,600 so far this year.

The club holds sponsored rides, collecting throughout the UK and Europe.

Angie Lawrence said: "The day has been very good to create awareness in Trowbridge."

War veterans were among those helping to promote the day, taking donations and talking to the public. About £600 was raised on the day.

It has also helped to remind people to remember those who have given their lives in battle ahead of Remembrance Day.

St Augustine's Catholic College, Trowbridge, held an early Remembrance Service at the school on Friday to honour the fallen service men and women.