Toni O’Donnell, the widow of Whitnash munitions expert Sgt Maj Gary O’Donnell, who was awarded the George Cross and bar, joined members of the legion and Warwick and Leamington MP James Plaskitt for a ceremony in the Royal Priors shopping centre on Friday.

The organisation helps serving and former servicemen and women and their families with medical care and problems adapting to civilian life, and collects most of its money in the annual appeal.

The legion’s county chairman Philip Watson underlined the support the organisation gave to servicemen and women who had served in Afghanistan and Iraq as well as the previous century’s conflicts.

He said: “This points to a growing need for the legion’s services amoung younger serving and former servicepeople.

“The extra funds raised this year will make a significant difference to those who need assistance, both young and old.

“Please give generously and wear your poppy with pride.”