Scottish poppy appeal raised £2.6m last year

The annual poppy appeal raised almost £2.6 million in Scotland last year.

Poppyscotland said it collected £2,586,788 which will support former members of the Armed Forces.

The total is less than the £2.68 million raised in 2011, with the charity citing rising living costs for the lower sum last year.

Poppyscotland chief executive Ian McGregor said: “Whilst we did not exceed the 2011 total, we are very proud of this result. We recognise the difficulties faced by individuals and families with the country in recession and the cost of living rising.

“We are immensely grateful to the public for digging deep once again to help Scotland’s veterans and we extend our heartfelt thanks to them and to the many volunteers who work tirelessly on our behalf.”

Struggling

The charity uses the money it raises to help ex-service people and their families who struggle with physical injuries, mental illness and securing employment and housing.

Mr McGregor emphasised the need for donations all year round and not just in the lead-up to Remembrance Day in November.

“Our fundraising activity continues far beyond November. Sadly, the demands on our services show no sign of diminishing and whether someone has left the Armed Forces two weeks ago or 20 years ago, we will be there,” he said.

“Quite simply, in order to ensure a better future for Scotland’s veterans and their families, we need to raise more money.”