THE Poppy Appeal has had a disappointing initial response to its crisis call for an organiser for the Winchester area.

The Royal British Legion stands to lose thousands of pounds in donations because nobody could be found to run the appeal in the city.

It means that currently Winchester is the only place in Hampshire without an organiser, which could affect chances of equalling the £25,000 raised in the city last year.

The problem developed when the previous organiser, Derek Green, was forced to stand down because of work commitments.

Despite publicity in the local media and a public appeal by the mayor, Councillor Cecily Sutton, so far only four people have responded.

Karen Betancourt-Jess, county community fundraiser for the legion, said: "The numbers were poor. I'm absolutely gobsmacked. I thought we would have more than that."

Interviews were taking place this week, with the successful candidate due to be announced as soon as possible.

Whoever is appointed will have to hit the ground running as the appeal will be in full swing within a month in the run-up to Remembrance Sunday on November 14.

There has been widespread shock over the news, especially as Winchester is a city with a strong military tradition. Armies have been based in the city since Roman times and there are still important military bases on the edge of the city at Littleton and Worthy Down.

Several military museums are based at the Peninsula Barracks including the Royal Hampshire Regiment.

If you can help the Poppy Appeal contact Shane Hearn, county field officer for the British Legion, on 023 8062 0900.