A LACK of volunteers could mean The Poppy Appeal, held annually to support the British Armed Forces, could have no presence in Royston this year.

The Royal British Legion is struggling to find volunteers to help organise The Poppy Appeal, despite it being run in the town for almost 20 years.

Community fundraiser Natasha Robertson said: “Unless we get more volunteers to support this year’s Poppy Appeal there might not be any poppies available in Royston this year.

“We are appealing to individuals, organisations and companies in the area and asking them to help us to make a difference.”

Chris Murphy and Ken Stapleton, who currently organise the town’s Poppy Appeal, are considering stepping down due to the lack of help.

Mr Murphy, who is chairman of the Royston branch, said: “We are already arranging this year’s Poppy Appeal and we need a lot more helpers to join the team as we can’t do it on our own again. It is a huge operation for such a small group of people to put together. We need as many people as possible to chip in and help with our organisation.”

Volunteers are wanted to get involved with the early stages of planning and distributing the 186 collection boxes throughout Royston.

The Royal British Legion is the nation’s leading Armed Forces charity, providing care and support to all members of the British Armed Forces and their families.

If you are interested in volunteering for this year’s Poppy Appeal, contact Royston’s Royal British Legion group on 01763 244560 or email rblroystonbranch@yahoo.co.uk