SIXTY-ONE volunteers from the Okehampton area who are involved in the British Legion Poppy Appeal were recognised for their efforts with long service awards last week.

The presentation of awards for ten years service to 45 years service was made by the Devon County British Legion chairman David Walker.

The longest serving volunteer was Esme Preece of Okehampton.

Poppy appeal co-ordinator Marilyn Poat said she had invited all the volunteers to come along to the branch office in Station Road but had not told them what would be taking place.

'It was a great surprise for them and it was a wonderful evening,' she said.

'I am totally dependent on the volunteers, some of whom are in their 80s.'

Around £5,000 a year is raised by the Okehampton and District Poppy Appeal which takes in an area as far as Lifton, Broadwoodwidger and Broadwoodkelly.