Record £2.2m raised to help war veterans

A RECORD £2.2 million has been raised to help war veterans and their families in Scotland, it was announced today.

TV star Lorraine Kelly revealed the total for the 2009 Scottish Poppy Appeal.

Charity Poppyscotland said public donations in November played a "large part" in reaching the record sum.

The GMTV presenter, who is an ambassador for Poppyscotland, said: "This is a fantastic result and shows how much the public cares about Scotland's veterans. The work of Poppyscotland is even more relevant now than it's ever been.

"Our servicemen and women are putting their lives on the line every day. Some are returning home with devastating injuries and memories of the horrific traumas they have experienced.

"Poppyscotland relies on the efforts of its amazing army of volunteers.

I would ask anyone who has a few hours to spare to help where they can, either by taking on the appeal in their area or by collecting for a few hours during Poppy Week."

Poppyscotland supports veterans, provides financial assistance to individuals and also helps to fund the work of organisations including Combat Stress and Erskine.