A COUPLE have made a poppy man with 1,000 poppies for this year's Gwent Poppy Appeal.

British Legion Members Pam and Terry Young, 65, decided to do something different to boost their fundraising efforts on their first year as Poppy Appeal organisers for Marshfield and District.

Mr Young said: "It's the first one done in Gwent.

"We got the dummy from a sports shop and covered it in a green wire.

"Then, we covered it with around 1,000 poppies. It took us a few hours, but it wasn't very difficult.

"It's quite strong so we're hoping it'll last quite a few years.

"We'll take it to events, such as collections in supermarkets.

"We've called him Tommy Atkins."

Mr Young, who just recently retired, said he is very excited about this year's Poppy Appeal and hopes to collect as much as possible.

Mr Young, from Cardiff, served in the military all his life.

He said: "I've served in various countries, but I'd say my war was Northern Ireland."

More volunteers from across Gwent are needed to join Royal British Legion (RBL) fundraisers for this year's Poppy Appeal.

Anyone interested in supporting the Royal British Legion contact Mike Jones on 07875089933 or e mail at majones@britishlegion.org.uk