RECORD APPEAL: Organisers of the Poppy Appeal are celebrating after raising a record £325,000.

The money, an eight per cent increase on the previous year, was collected from the public across the county during the 2008 appeal.

Nationally, the appeal looks likely to beat its target of £32 million.

Nick Oldfield, pictured, community fund-raiser for the North Staffordshire Royal British Legion, said: "This really is fantastic news for us. The success is down to several things. Firstly, the generosity of the public, which never ceases to amaze me.

"And also, last year, due to various initiatives, a lot more volunteers came forward to help."

Anyone who would like to volunteer to help the Poppy Appeal should call Nick on 07826 874889.

Picture: Malcolm Hart