VOLUNTEERS who have given years of service to the British Legion in Coleford were honoured – although its not clear exactly how much time they have given.

Certificates of appreciation were presented at Berry Hill rugby club to people who support the Poppy Appeal and the other work of the Legion in the area.

But Poppy Appeal organiser Fiona Cameron said a change in the Legion’s members’ database meant it was impossible to know exactly how many years some volunteers had served.

What was known was that Micky Hunt had 30 years’ service with the Legion and he was presented with a badge.

He has been a familiar sight on the streets of Coleford selling poppies in his plumed cap of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

The 82-year-old joked he was “just a baby” when he first started selling poppies.

Geoff Gwynne received a badge for 15 years – but reckons he has been doing it for as long as Micky.

The other members recognised for long service were Frank and Janet Melhuish, Brian and Jennifer Linsell, Graham and Jane Hoskins, Maurice and Maureen Lane, Kate and Adam Fogerty and Margaret Fisher.

Legion secretary Marcus Bristow was also presented with a certificate for his service.

There were also certificates of appreciation for organisations that have helped the Poppy Appeal – English Bicknor Women’s Institute, Tesco, Coleford 2nd Brownies and Coleford Guides.

During the evening Wayne Sharkey and Phillip Atock of Berry Hill Rugby Club presented a cheque for £618, the proceeds of a fun day at the club.

Fiona Cameron said: “We appreciate all the help we get. The Poppy Appeal especially would not be able to carry on if we did not have members who give their all.”

The Poppy Appeal in Coleford has so far raised some £8,760.

•See this week’s Review for more photographs.