A POPPY campaign spearheaded by a caring councillor saw £420 raised for a vital military charity.

In the run-up to this year’s Remembrance Sunday, Dave Harris took his ladder around Shrub End and Berechurch and pinned large poppies on lamp-posts in a show of solidarity with those who have served in the armed forces.

Families can sponsor a poppy in memory of a loved one and have the poignant flower placed outside their home to support the appeal.

Mr Harris, whose father and son were in the Army, first began his initiative four years ago.

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“My community in south Colchester rallied round to support my poppy appeal again,” said Mr Harris.

“In total, £420 was handed to the Royal British Legion.”

“As a strong services town, I am so pleased to be a part of backing the charity and thank the community for helping.”