A building society has backed the Poppy Appeal by holding collections at its head office and local branches.

The West Brom pledged to help The Royal British Legion reach its fundraising target of £42 million, to allow it to continue offering practical care and support to Armed Forces personnel and their families.

Simon Skipper, a former soldier and Poppy Appeal organiser for West Bromwich, said: “It is important to have the support of a major local employer and it was a pleasure to visit the West Brom and share my experiences about why the legion has such a crucial role to play for those involved with or affected by military duty.”

* Pictured are Nick Trueman from the West Brom, Alison Bates from The Royal British Legion and Simon Skipper.