WHEN war veteran Ken Ladbrook’s health started to deteriorate in old age, he knew he would have to adapt his Rose Hill home.

What he didn’t expect was the gift he received from the Royal British Legion – a stairlift costing more than £2,000.

Former Royal Engineer Mr Ladbrook died last year aged 89.

Last night his son Peter, of Wilkins Road, Cowley, said: “I want to tell people about this now so they can really see why buying a poppy is so important.

“The stairlift proved extremely helpful.

“My father called it his chariot and he always appreciated the financial assistance very much indeed.”

Oxfordshire Royal British Legion manager Craig Treeby said it was currently dealing with 300 applications for help.

He said: “When somebody gives us feedback and shows their appreciation it really does mean so much to us.

“We are delighted when anybody spreads the word about what we do.

“If there are people who are eligible for our help but don’t know about us, then we are failing in our job.”

Service and ex-service personnel are eligible for help.

For further information call 01844 216961 or email ysmith@britishlegion.org.uk