HE'S notched-up an incredible 40 years' service to the Poppy Appeal - now Maurice Green, 85, has received a top medal for his dedication.

The former military police office joined Romsey and District Royal British Legion a decade after leaving the services.

Every year he took to the streets with the famous red Poppy Appeal collecting tin to raise cash for a cause he was passionate about, helping to raise thousands of pounds for the organisation.

Now living in Wakeford Court, Romsey, Maurice told the Daily Echo: "It was an interest of mine, doing something for a good cause. I've no idea how much I have raised over the years but I suspect it was a fair bit."

At the Royal British Legion building, in Love Lane, Romsey, retired collector Mr Green was awarded the top honour, a Poppy Appeal medal, by town mayor Councillor Dorothy Baverstock.

Other members also picked up long service awards. Ron and Jean Coxhead and Ron Still of Romsey picked up a brooch for 15 years' service, as did Rachel Tanner, from Awbridge.

Romsey's Betty Quinton received a brooch for 25 years of volunteering and the 30 years' service award went to David and Ann Randell and Mavis Chapman. Organiser Sally Lamb said: "All the award winners have given their time consistently over the years and truly deserve the awards."