VOLUNTEERS are wanted to help sell poppies to ensure more money keeps being raised each year to honour people who have served their country.

Eddie Maxwell, poppy appeal organiser for Blackburn, is calling for people willing to give up any time they have to sell poppies.

He said around 15 people have currently given up their time to help out.

However when he first got involved four years ago there was almost double the number of people volunteering.

Since he started more than £250,000 has been raised for the Royal British Legion in Blackburn with the poppy appeal.

Each year has seen more money raised than the last with around £56,000 collected in 2016.

However Mr Maxwell said more volunteers are needed to make sure the trend contains this year.

The 48-year-old from Lower Darwen said: "Over the last few years we've had a few people getting on a bit and have either passed away or aren't able to get out and sell poppies.

"We're struggling a bit for volunteers at the moment.

"We want to raise as much money as possible and be there or there about with beating last years total.

"Whether it's a few hours, a day, a week, everyone is welcome to get behind this great cause."

Volunteers are wanted to sell poppies at sites and times which can be arranged for their convenience.

Popular sites for poppy selling to take place include supermarkets, hospitals and large shopping centres as well as at spots throughout the town centre.

The calls come ahead of the official launch of the Blackburn with Darwen Poppy appeal which will take place at Spuds stall in Blackburn Market on Friday at 10am.

Mr Maxwell said he has invited Blackburn Rovers to attend and expects representatives from the council to also come along.

Last year Blackburn Rovers left back Derrick Williams attended to mark the launch of the appeal.

Mr Maxwell said: "It is one of the biggest appeals around the country and it is on everyone's mind at this time of year.

"We want as many people as possible to get involved, it'd be a great problem to have so many people at the same site.

"It's like being a football manager you want all your best players available and having to make those tough decisions."

Mr Maxwell said drivers are also wanted to help transport poppy boxes and tins.

Anyone wanting to get involved should contact Mr Maxwell on 07718912736 or visit www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved.