The final count is not expected for a while, but the local branches of the Royal British Legion report that they are expecting a record-breaking amount.

All the more welcome since fundraising was hit badly in 2020 by coronavirus and the lockdowns which meant there were no poppy sellers out on the streets.

But meantime they would like to offer a special thanks to a special piece of accounting from Midsomer Norton TSB bank - which said yes to some very welcome help.

The RBL explained: " During one of the major counts of poppy tins, a basic team of three ladies counted the contents of approximately 120 tins over three days.

"The individual amounts then needed to be totalled up and paid into the RBL account. Philippa Rogers, from the local TSB branch arrived, took off her coat and counted in excess of £7,500 in notes and coins. The RBL branch are so grateful for her help as it completed that part of the job, one to which the counting team were not looking forward to."

The Legion want to extend their thanks to the generosity of all the people of Midsomer Norton, Radstock and the surrounding areas for their donations.

The Royal British Legion supports serving and former personnel and their families and across the UK more than 40,000 volunteers across the UK were out collecting this year.