POPPY appeal fundraisers have reported a total of more than �42,000 raised across the borough this year.

A record-breaking �33,187.56 was raised by the Great Yarmouth branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL), and now totals have been counted by three more branches.

The Bradwell and Burgh Castle branch raised �3,090 this year, which is more than �1,000 up on last year’s total.

Branch chair George Green said: “We want to thank everybody who donated and also to the shops and stores in the area which backed us.

The Great Ormesby and District branch has raised �3,675.40 so far which is more than �1,000 up on last year’s total.

Karen King, branch chairman and Poppy Appeal organiser, said: “It’s an absolutely fantastic amount and it’s down to the hard work of our volunteers and the generosity of the public.”

Organisers wish to thank the schools as they alone raised more than �500.

Hemsby, Ormesby Infants and Pre School and Ormesby Juniors had children lay wreathes, and organisers say it was wonderful to see them and their behaviour was a credit to the schools.

The Martham and District branch of the RBL raised �2,614, which is fractionally less than last year.

But organisers say they are pleased that people still dug deep for the Poppy Appeal in the current economic climate.

Gerry Nichols, branch secretary, said: We’re down a little on last year but it was exceptional last year.

“I’m pleased with the total given how things are at the moment - there’s not much money around and people have been supporting us well.

The grand total across the borough currently stands at �42,566.96.

The total is still being counted at the Caister of the RBL.

The Bradwell and Burgh Castle branch is appealing for new members. If you are interested, call George Green on 07828 876717.