More than 1,000 giant poppies adorn Croydon’s lampposts and trees as a striking visual reminder of this year’s Poppy Appeal.

The charity hopes to beat the £44,000 raised last year in the borough to support the wounded and bereaved heroes in our armed forces serving in Afghanistan.

Brian Jones, a former Croydon Champions winner, organises the British Legion's appeal.

He said: "We’re so pleased that Croydon now has this iconic image on public display. It gives people a visual reminder to thank those who gave their lives in wars both past and present.”

Nationally, the Poppy Appeal is seeking to raise a record-breaking £36 million to help pay for the £1.4m that is spent every week helping more than 160,000 people deal with the aftermath of war.

Councillor Mike Fisher, leader of the council, said: “I’m delighted that the British Legion has singled out Croydon in this way and we are, of course, sure that local people will show their sympathy and support for those who have sacrificed on behalf of their country.

“Our links with the military have always been strong, and it’s fantastic for the council to be able to support the fundraising drive.”