Scottish Poppy Appeal for 2010 raised more than £2.3 million

From the Galloway Gazette

The Scottish Poppy Appeal for 2010 has raised more than £2.3 million - the highest in its history.

A total of £2,343,150 has been donated in the 2010 appeal, with a record £2 million from collection tins. The figure is 5% up on the 2009 appeal total.

Poppyscotland ambassador and BBC Reporting Scotland presenter Jackie Bird said: "This is a wonderful result for Scotland's veterans and their families.

"The theme of the 2010 appeal was 'small things, big difference'. The simple act of buying a poppy may seem like a small gesture but all money raised can make a huge difference to the lives of Scotland's veterans."

The presenter was joined by three Royal Marines to reveal the figure near the Science Centre in Glasgow.

Colin Flinn, Poppyscotland head of fundraising, said: "It's a spectacular amount.

"It's a record throughout the 89/90-year history of Poppyscotland and the Scottish Poppy Appeal.

"This is the most we've ever raised and particularly in such a tough economic climate to be 5% up on the previous year is, I think, a real testament to the support that our veterans get from the Scottish public."

Mr Flinn said a key difference in the 2010 appeal was the public putting money in tins at a "hugely increased level" to break the £2 million barrier on the streets.

Money from the Scottish Poppy Appeal and other fundraising activity is used to provide year-round support to veterans and their families, many of whom suffer as a result of physical, psychological and financial problems as they struggle to readjust to civilian life.