The Manor Park branch of the Royal British Legion has raised �75,000 from this year’s Poppy Appeal despite suffering a series of setbacks.

The group, which was unable to stage the annual parade to honour John Cornwell VC, has said it is still in business despite the closure of its club.

Robert Strong, Manor Park branch chairman, thanked everyone who helped raise the money including schools, train stations underground and mainline stations, as well as churches and collectors, many of whom work during the winter to sell poppies.

The Manor Park branch of the legion meets at 30a Church Road, Manor Park at 8pm every Monday and supports ex servicemen and women.