THIEVES have marred the launch of Winchester's week of remembrance by stealing three poppy collection boxes.

The city launched its period of remembrance on Tuesday with a simple ceremony outside the cathedral.

Derek Green, chairman of the Royal British Legion's Winchester branch and organiser of the appeal in the city, revealed: "I am disappointed that three collection boxes have been stolen, one at the cathedral, one from the Guildhall and one from Clinton's Cards."

Shane Hearn, county field officer for the Legion, said so far this year there had only been four thefts of boxes in Hampshire, including the three in Winchester.

Mr Hearn said: "It is a miniscule amount when you consider there are more than 17,000 boxes in Hampshire alone. But any money stolen is deeply frustrating and anger-making.

"But I don't think it is a growing problem. I think there is still a respect for the charity and the appeal boxes."

On Tuesday, members of the Royal British Legion took part in the dedication of the Field of Remembrance in the grounds of the cathedral.

The ceremony, at which Canon Colin Deedes officiated and the Dean, the Very Rev Michael Till, pronounced a blessing, marks the beginning of the season of remembrance of those men and women who died in battle.