The Royal British Legion is seeking new volunteers for this year’s Poppy Appeal in Cheshire West.

The RBL, which marked its 100th anniversary last year, is looking for Poppy Appeal Organisers to cover a number of areas near Chester, including Barrow and Malpas.

The charity is the UK's largest dedicated to supporting the Armed Forces community and their families.

Ruth Jones, Community Fundraiser for West Cheshire, said: "We really want to thank everyone across the city who got involved and supported the Poppy Appeal in 2021, but we have seen a reduction in the number of our collectors following the pandemic, with many still anxious about returning to their normal way of life, but the RBL still has a job to do and we remain optimistic for this year.

"The RBL’s work is even more vital than ever as we support people from all generations who have new hardships as a result of both Covid and the current cost-of-living crisis, which has had a devastating impact on people’s livelihoods right across our region, leaving some in our Armed Forces community in dire need of help and support."

Calls to the RBL for assistance accessing food have increased dramatically, with people needing help to feed themselves and their families.

The charity is currently helping people who are facing homelessness, struggling to feed their children or in financial crisis.

Ruth added: "Our volunteers are more important than ever. Every year they play a critical role across the West Cheshire and Chester to meet the huge public demand for our poppies, the nation’s symbol of Remembrance.

"The Appeal raises about half of the funds we need for our welfare work every year, and anyone who volunteers will receive lots of support and enjoyment from taking part."

Anyone who would like to volunteer this year can email ReJones@britishlegion.org.uk.