The Royal British Legion in Abingdon raised record amounts from the annual Poppy Day appeal.

Figures just released show £16,203 was collected in the town in November -- £2,000 more than the previous year. Collections have trebled in the last six years.

Abingdon still comes under Berkshire and per head of population was the third biggest collector in the county.

Stan Bradford, chairman of the Abingdon branch and a gunner in Bomber Command during the Second World War, said: "It was a wonderful achievement and our thanks go to everyone who supported us. It is a tribute to our team of organisers and collectors who work so hard.

"It is encouraging to see how the public both young and old support the work of the Royal British Legion.

"We are alive and well and providing a valuable service for old servicemen and women and for those who have served their country in more recent conflicts."

Former policeman Brian Leather collected most money with a total of £1,795.

Money was also collected outside supermarkets and in local schools.