A ROYAL British Legion branch in Newport has raised around £250,000 for the Poppy Appeal over the past thirty-five years.

Ninety-one-year-old Joan Reynolds, MBE, of Wellington Road, is one of the oldest members of the Bassaleg and Rhiwderin branch and she has been the branch's Poppy Appeal Organiser since 1982.

Since then, the branch has raised a quite incredible quarter of a million pounds.

Mrs Reynolds, the current secretary of the branch and an ex-service woman who served on gun sites during the Second World War for three and a half years, said: "This is not about me, this is about the Bassaleg and Rhiwderin branch.

"There have been so many wars since the First World War, there has been so much need for people coming back. In each war, there have been job losses, people who need help.

"For example, The Royal British Legion has done a tremendous amount for those coming back from Iraq or Afghanistan, funding hospitals and more.

"In my case, I’ve empathy to all those who serve the crown and their dependants. If there’s need, I have to help and this is the way I can do it.

"I’ve had three heart surgeries, however, if I’m well enough, I do it every year. I’ve not had to miss it once yet."

A while ago, Mrs Reynolds was the chair of the Royal British Legion for Gwent, becoming the first woman to be county chair of the charity.

She said that she has always been into the army, with her husband and brother being in the forces. Her father was in France during the First World War.

“Nationally, every year we raise more money, I believe we’ll do even better this year," she said. "It’s a great deal."

Last year, volunteers in Gwent raised an incredible £300,000.

Every year, across the country 350,000 volunteers are needed to help run what is the main fundraising event of the year for the nation's biggest Armed Forces charity providing care and support to all members of the British Armed forces past and present and their families.

If you think you could get involved contact Lynne Woodyatt, the Royal British Legion’s community fundraiser for South East and Mid Wales, on 07827 230619 or email Lwoodyatt@britishlegion.org.uk

Alternatively, call Mike Jones on 07875089933.

For further information on the work of The Royal British Legion visit britishlegion.org.uk