THE Great Yarmouth branch of the Royal British Legion has been presented with two awards - one of which recognises last year's record-breaking collection across the borough.

THE Great Yarmouth branch of the Royal British Legion has been presented with two awards - one of which recognises last year's record-breaking collection across the borough.

The branch was presented with a cup for the second most improved collection in Norfolk and an second cup for the best kept war memorial in St Georges Park as part of the legion's annual awards.

Branch member Paul Williams, of Gorleston, said the branch had been very encouraged by the response of local people last year, adding he was optimistic the branch could at least match or even beat the record breaking collection of £19,333 this year.

Last year the branch increased its collections in Gorleston by 60pc on the previous year which Mr Williams firmly believes was down to shops, mainly in the High Street and on Magdalen Way, making an extra effort to decorate their windows with bunting, flags, balloons and ribbons.

He said: “The shops' displays really helped raise awareness of the Poppy Appeal and that's why we raised more money last year. We would also like to thank the people involved in maintaining the war memorial.”

And the ground work for November's appeal is already well underway with about 70 shops around Gorleston agreeing to have special shop window displays.

Also new to this years fundraising campaign is collection boxes in holiday camps.

“We thought holiday camps would be a good setting for collection boxes because we don't want them in shops all year round as it would take the impact off the national event in November.”

Mr Williams and wife Irene will be hitting the streets of Gorleston again this year for eights days of collection in November.

The Royal British Legion provides financial, social and emotional support to millions who have served and are currently serving in the armed forces.