POPPY collectors in the Newent and local district have been honoured for their hard work over many years, at a special presentation evening.

The presentation was attended by Newent Mayor Councillor June Davies and Councillor Colin Thomas.

Cllr Thomas said: "On this occasion awards were made to individuals and local schools who have contributed an incredible amount of time over the years to raise funds for the Royal British Legion.

"The awards were presented by the current Chairman Richard Balding and the current President John Celino. Unfortunately not all those receiving awards were able to be present and these will be presented individually at a later date."

Cllr Thomas added: "The President noted that the number of years that some of the collectors had been collecting is quite staggering.

Heather Cook and Elizabeth James, both of whom have exceeded 35 years as collectors, in Heather's case now more than 40 years, received a 30 year brooch each and a bar for each extra added five year period.

"Chris Howley received a 20 year badge though she has now reached 23 years and counting. Geoff Garfield received a Tie Tack for his 15 years service."

Cllr Thomas added: "John and Pearl Celino both received Certificates of Appreciation for five years whilst John and Patricia Price received the same and a special commendation for helping to organise the logistics for the collections as well.

"Derek Wooden had previously been awarded with his 30 year Badge and 5 year Bar."

Cllr Thomas said: "Others who should be mentioned are Christine Draper (25 years), Rosamund Broadbent (30 year brooch + 5 year bar), Sally Anne Grimshaw and 186 Squadron ATC (20 year badge), Kevin Shayle (10 years) and Mike and Ann Poulter (20 year badge and brooch)."

At a separate ceremony Colin Thomson, the Legion's Standard Bearer presented Amanda Horniman,Co-Head of Tibberton Community Primary School, with a Certificate of Appreciation for 5 years of collections and a special letter of thanks.

Cllr Thomas said: "It was noted that the parents and children of this school had raised an amazing £195.27 for the Poppy Appeal.

"Later a collection jar was emptied and counted in the Kings Arms in Newent. Fred Ellis, the then landlord, had organised this collection over a period of time. It was revealed to have raised £259.69 from very generous donations from the landlord and patrons of the pub."

Cllr Thomas added: "These donations and collections are the lifeblood of the British Legion and Legion and they wish to express their thanks to all who collect and donate to this very worthy cause."