POPPYSCOTLAND needs you!

Or, to be more precise, fundraising stalwarts Mike and Sheila Stark need your help to continue their hard work in Peebles.

The Starks and Scotland’s leading Armed Forces charity are searching for new volunteers to help collect in the area for this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal.

Mike and Sheila, who are both in their 80s, have raised more than £100,000 for Poppyscotland in the past 15 years.

Mike said: “We really enjoy the interaction with the general public at Poppy Appeal time.

"Working with a great bunch of volunteers is rewarding, especially knowing we are helping to support the veteran community in Scotland.

"We have found that the public are very much aware of what the Scottish Poppy Appeal stands for and, therefore, it’s not difficult to encourage people to contribute.”

And the couple’s advice to anyone thinking about becoming a volunteer for Poppyscotland is clear.

Sheila added: “Just do it – no thought needed!

"You’ll be amazed by the support you receive – the businesses and public are lovely, and we encourage anyone in the area to join us to get out and meet them.”

Poppyscotland helps transform the lives of veterans across the country, as well as those currently serving, and their families who are in need.

The money raised from the annual Poppy Appeal enables them to provide support to those affected by many issues including poverty, mental health problems and disability.

Poppyscotland head of fundraising Gordon Michie told us: “The dedication that Mike and Sheila have shown to the Poppyscotland cause over the past decade and a half is nothing short of staggering.

"While many of their vintage are taking things easy, this incredible couple are out there year after year raising vital funds so we can continue to support the Armed Forces community in Peebles and across the rest of the country.

“However, as is the case in many other parts of the country, more help is required, and I would like to join Mike and Sheila in sending out a plea to anyone who can spare a few hours to help collect during this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal.

"I know it would mean a great deal to them and would provide a real boost to the fundraising effort in Peebles.”

Poppyscotland’s 10-000-strong team of volunteers covers every city, town and village in Scotland.

Last year's Poppy Appeal raised more than £2.4 million thanks to the support of the public and the dedication of volunteers like the Starks.

To get involved in Peebles and surrounding areas, contact Mike on 01721 724 596, or email him at mikestark2@btinternet.com.

Alternatively contact Steve Parry, Volunteer Development Officer at Poppyscotland, on either volunteer@poppyscotland.org.uk, or 0131 550 1597.