Donations to this year’s Poppy Appeal in Abingdon have risen by 16%, reaching £47,911.25 with more still to come.

Clare Oldfield, Abingdon Poppy Appeal Organiser, said: “At a time when people are feeling the pinch, these figures are incredible – heartbreaking and humbling. They demonstrate the generosity of townspeople and show just how much the Poppy means to them.”

Royal British Legion Branch chairman Michael Barrett added that it had been “an amazing year”, praising the dedicated team of collectors and the town’s strong support.

Tesco Extra raised over £14,000, Waitrose £10,000, and the town’s sole house-to-house collector brought in more than £1,000. Abingdon pubs contributed £471, and local schools added £3,904. Nearby villages also made significant contributions.

This year’s appeal also featured a vintage military jeep, a rare 1945 ambulance, and the first Poppy Ball at the Hilton Garden Inn.

Anyone wishing to join the Poppy Appeal team can email abingdonpoppies@gmail.com