The county’s poppy fund could be more than £30,000 down this year unless a new Appeal Organiser can be found for Bicester.

Brian Bailey, 73, has been helping to co-ordinate the town’s successful Poppy Appeal for the past five years – last year as Poppy Appeal Organiser (PAO) – pulling in an impressive £32,000 through a 60-strong team of collectors.

But other commitments mean he must now step back from the role — and he fears the worst. He said: “Without a new PAO there will be no Poppy collection in November, which would not only make me very sad but could also have a devastating affect on our many loyal collectors.

“The organisation of the Poppy Appeal requires a PAO to oversee the collectors, and if we are unable to mount the appeal this year, we may well lose some of our collectors forever.”

He continued: “Here in Bicester we are a small but active Royal British Legion (RBL) Branch with most members being trained welfare case workers.

“We are in continual demand to assist both the serving Forces and ex-service personnel and their families in times of need and as such, the Poppy Appeal money is vital.

“My primary role is as a welfare case worker, but this has been put on hold whilst I have been PAO. I feel we need to have someone younger in place for the future.”

Laura Laffan, Oxfordshire’s new community fundraiser, said: “This is a very worrying situation. Brian has done a wonderful job but we must find someone to take his place if we are to have a collection in Bicester this year and time is running short.”

The new PAO would take overall responsibility for Bicester’s 60 volunteer collectors together with shops, businesses and schools within Bicester and the village of Launton.

He or she will be assisted by three or four experienced area co-ordinators who will be responsible to the PAO for the collections made within their defined areas.

Ideally suited to a retired person, transport is also important for the role.

Mr Bailey said: “Although this is an unpaid post, it is an extremely rewarding activity and one where many friendships are made.

“I’ll remain a member of the Legion and collector and I intend to stay on long enough to properly train the new PAO.”

The PAO does not have to be a member of the Royal British Legion, nor to have served in the Armed Forces. The only requirement is enthusiasm and commitment. Apply to: Laura Laffan, Community Fundraiser for Bucks/Oxon on: 07917267737 or email llaffan @britishlegion.org.uk