LONG-TERM Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal volunteers were honoured for their many years of service on December 12 at Sainsbury’s in Bradford on Avon.

The commemorative awards ceremony recognised its long-standing volunteers, some of whom had given between 10 years of collection service and as much as 55 years of work.

Volunteers’ service to the appeal was recognised with certificates, brooches, tie racks, badges, medals and bars for the stalwart poppy appeal helpers, some of whom had travelled from Wales for the presentation.

Poppy Appeal organiser for Bradford on Avon, South Wraxall, Winsley, Westwood and Monkton Farleigh, David Allison, said: “I want to express my appreciation for the many years of service people have given and to Sainsbury's for this ceremony and the great support they gave us for the poppy appeal – we raised more than £4,000 here."

“We don’t have the organisation of a district like Trowbridge, so we just rely on long-standing volunteers and local businesses for which I am forever grateful.”

Bradford on Avon MP Michelle Donelan, who gave out the awards, said: "I want to echo David's thanks and to David himself for his sterling and very commendable job. It is humbling to be here and be part of this astonishing effort and your commitment is astounding."

Sainsbury’s spokesman, Anne-Marie Milsom said: “This was a fantastic turnout, it really shows the fantastic community spirit. Sainsbury’s Bradford on Avon is proud to be a part of it and supports the Royal British Legion. The amount raised by the collectors at the store this year was remarkable.”

Award winners:

55 years Bar to 30 year Brooch - Mrs Barbara Wilkins.

45 years Bar to 30 years Medal/Brooch – Mr Arthur Thomas; Mrs Freda Thomas.

30 years Brooch/Medal – Mrs Sonia Doble; Mrs Gwen Allison; Mr David Allison.

25 years ‘For Merit’ Badge – Mrs Jenny Howard.

20 years Badge – Mrs Jane King (plus 15 years brooch); Mrs Diane King; Miss Angela Bigwood; Mr Rod McCaulder; Mrs Lesley Chalmers.

15 years Brooch/tie rack – Dr David Chalmers; Mrs Virginia Robinson; Mrs Lyn McCaulder.

10 years Certificate – Mr Stuart Leatherdale; Mrs Sheila Allen; Mr David Wyper.