WARMINSTER’S Ray Shorto, who has been handing out poppies for the Poppy Appeal since he was a boy, has been recognised by the Royal British Legion for his 45 years of contribution.

The 61-year-old, of Victoria Road, along with six others received long service awards at a special presentation on Thursday at Warminster Civic Centre for their years of service to the Poppy Appeal.

The pins and badges were awarded by Warminster Mayor Andrew Davis with years of service ranging from five years to Mr Shorto’s staggering 45 years.

Mr Shorto, a printer and publisher, said: “I have actually been doing it for longer than 45 years but they only start counting from when you turn 16.

“The first time I actually gave out poppies was before I was born when my mother did it and she was pregnant with me.

“Some of my earliest memories are of going round to homes in the area with a collection tin and ringing the door bell.

“It’s something I have grown-up doing because my father was a prisoner of war in Japan, so I’ve always been keen to do my bit.”

Major Steve Stephens, Major Roger Dean, Michael Found and Vivionne Weaver all received 15-year awards while Mike Airey and Connie Edwards received ten and five respectively.

Lesley Fudge, Poppy Appeal organiser for Warminster from the Royal British Legion, said: “The Poppy Appeal would not happen without people volunteering and giving up their time, especially when many of them are retired and going out at a time of year when the weather can be fairly cold.

“For someone to have done this for 45 years, it’s outstanding and someone who is fairly determined.”

Mayor Andrew Davis added: “As a strong supporter of the Poppy Appeal and what it stands for it’s a great honour to give out these awards to such fantastic people.”