FORMER servicemen and supporters of the Royal British Legion have turned to 'poppy power' after a popular branch folded because of a lack of funds and volunteers.

A meeting has been organised by members of the club in Nelson to make contingency plans to save the organisation in the town.

The HQ had to shut through shortage of money and helpers and an appeal has gone out to anyone who can assist in Poppy Day collections.

John Hardiman, chief field officer for Lancashire, said: "We are appealing to anyone connected with the Services or sympathetic to the Royal British Legion to come along and see how they can help."

The organisation assists former servicemen in Nelson with financial problems and compensation claims for wartime service. It also organises equipment such as wheelchairs and stairlifts for the elderly.

Mr Hardiman added: "There is always a need for welfare visitors and, most importantly, anyone willing to help with the annual Poppy Appeal in the town in November.

"The club in Nelson struggled like many in Lancashire because social attitudes have changed.

But we desperately need to ensure that we have a welfare team in place so that members receive the benefits to which they are entitled and do not fall by the wayside."

The meeting will take place at Nelson Town Hall on Thursday starting at 7pm. Mr Hardiman said: "We are asking people to keep alive the memory of those who in the past sacrificed so much for this country and continue to do so today."