MORE than 100 people raised thousands of pounds for the Royal British Legion as they took part in the Great Gwent Poppy Run in Cwmcarn yesterday.

This year’s annual Poppy Run was a seven-mile circular route around Scenic Drive, Cwmcarn.

Elizabeth Precious completed the run in 48 minutes, beating all the other women, while her brother William Precious finished in 44 minutes, beating the rest of the male competition.

Mike Jones, Gwent’s Poppy Appeal co-ordinator, said: “It was great to see so many people turn up and show their support.

“A lot of people have already asked if we will be doing it again next year, and we definitely will be.

“This was the last year BAE systems could support us and we are now looking for help fromany businesses who want to come on board and sponsor us in future years.

“I would like to thank everyone who took part and all our volunteers for making today so good.”

The Gwent Poppy Appeal was launched on October 25 with a memorial and balloon launch at the Newport Transporter Bridge. It is aiming to raise £300,000 this year for the Armed Forces, their families and veterans.

The British Legion spends more than £1.7m a week on helping members of the Armed Forces, serving, exservice and their dependants.