THE Wanstead and Woodford branch of the Royal British Legion says it is desperate for volunteers to help with its poppy collection this autumn as it struggles with declining membership numbers.

The group raised an impressive £30,000 in the district last year, but organisers fear their donations could be seriously hit this time around unless they get more help from residents.

Branch chairman Victor Van-Boolen said: "The amount we managed to raise in 2008 was amazing, especially when you consider it was the start of the worst recession for years, but we have lost a couple of people since then and we really need some help.

"The money doesn't just go to veterans of the older wars, but soldiers who have been injured in the Middle East, Ireland, the Falklands, and so on. It can make such a difference to so many people's lives.

"Collecting can be a lot of fun. You meet so many friends and other people when you're out with the poppies, it can be very social.

"But people don't even need to stand in the street to help us, they can contribute just from their front rooms by helping to organise and co-ordinate everything."

Branch secretary Valerie Geller said: "We have so many regulations about where and when we can collect donations, I don't think many people realise just how restricted we are. We're not allowed to stand in the street all the time and it can be very difficult."

The Poppy Appeal runs from Saturday October 24 until Saturday November 7 this year, with Remembrance Sunday being held on November 8.

If you would like to help the Wanstead and Woodford branch call 079-444-88453.