BUSINESSES around Droitwich are being invited to lend a hand selling poppies in the town for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal.

Usually poppy sellers are given two days to sell poppies in Droitwich, which limits how many can be sold, but this year with the anniversary of the start of World War One, the selling window has increased to two weeks and the charity is keen to make the most of the opportunity, with the help of a few extra sellers.

Droitwich Rotarians have volunteered to co-ordinate the street poppy sales in the town this year, and organiser Mel Bates is keen to get local businesses involved.

He said: "We need volunteers to give a few hours of their time between October 27 and November 8 to stand at strategic points in the town and sell poppies.

"The more donations we receive the more benefit we can achieve for the service men and women and their families who need our help and support."

Local businesses and organisations are being asked to lend a member of staff for a few hours to stand out in Droitwich town centre and sell poppies for the appeal.

People can give anything from half an hour to several hours over the two week period, and any individuals wishing to volunteer their time will be made very welcome.

Droitwich Rotarians have already agreed to cancel their meeting on October 28 and instead spend the time on that day selling poppies.

If anyone would like to get involved with the appeal, they should contact Mel Bates on 01386 792 414 or write to melbates1@aol.com.