PRIME Minister David Cameron has led a call for everyone in Oxfordshire to wear their poppies with pride.

The Witney MP backed the county’s Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.

He was backed up by Oxfordshire’s five other MPs, along with civic dignitaries from the city.

Mr Cameron said: “The Poppy Appeal is a poignant reminder of the sacrifice our troops and their families have made and continue to make.

“As Prime Minister it is both an honour and a privilege to join in leading the tributes to the brave men and women who have lost their lives in war on Remembrance Sunday.

“This year I know that the Royal British Legion is aiming to raise £42m and all the money raised will go towards providing much-needed support for the Armed Forces and their families.

“Our Armed Forces deserve our deepest respect and gratitude and so I am urging everyone to get involved; wear your poppies with pride and support the 2012 Poppy Appeal.”

Oxford East MP Andrew Smith said: “It’s so important to support the Royal British Legion, who locally and nationally do such great work, both remembering all those who have been ready to sacrifice everything for our freedom, and also providing real practical help to veterans, their families and those presently serving in the Armed Forces.

“A huge thank you too to all the volunteers who raise so much by collecting for the poppies.”

Henley MP John Howell added: “I fully support the excellent work undertaken by the Royal British Legion.

“It is time once again to buy our poppies and support the campaign. I do so with great pride.”

Wantage MP and communications minister Ed Vaizey also gave his support.

He said: “Our constituency should be very proud of the traditions we have in honouring our servicemen and women, many of whom are stationed so close to our homes, in Dalton Barracks, RAF Benson, the Defence College in Shrivenham, and Vauxhall Barracks in Didcot where EOD specialists are trained.

“I am immensely privileged in my role as an MP to be able to meet some of the brave men and women who work and train here, they do an amazing job, and of course they recently provided the security for the greatest show on earth.”

Nicola Blackwood added: “I know the people of Oxford West and Abingdon have always been strongly supportive of the Royal British Legion’s vital work in supporting not only serving members of our Armed Forces but also their families and our veterans. Let’s do everything we can to set a new record this year.”

Banbury MP Sir Tony Baldry said:“One of my great-uncles who lived in Chipping Norton and won the military medal in the First World War on the Western Front barely ever again spoke on returning home, such was the combination of the effect of being gassed and the traumas of conflict.

“He lived in Chipping Norton until his 80s, so lived with the scars of combat and conflict for 60 years.

“So the money raised from the sale of poppies is of vital importance in supporting the welfare of those who have worn the Queen’s cap badge.”

Oxford’s Lord Mayor Alan Armitage also called on people to support the appeal.

He said: “This is an opportunity for us all to show our appreciation in a practical way that will help those who have fought and are now in need of some special support.”