THE public was yesterday urged to dig deep to help the annual Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Officials from the Royal British Legion (RBL), the Armed Forces and volunteer collectors gathered at Durham Town Hall to launch the appeal.

Durham's Mayor, Councillor Mary Hawgood, asked people not to pass collection boxes without making a contribution, however small.

She said: "The demand on the legion's resources continues to grow, not least because of the continuing conflict in Iraq.

"The Poppy Appeal is as relevant today as it ever was, and the legion is there to help those in need in our ex-service community and their dependants.

"The legion is continuing its Poppy People Campaign this year to recruit more volunteers who are so desperately needed."

Coun Hawgood said the public should be aware how efficiently the money is spent, with only a small percentage for administration, while the rest is devoted to the legion's many charitable activities supporting former personnel and their dependants.

Meanwhile, local volunteer collectors have received several tips to avoid problems.

Mike Donne, secretary of the Framwellgate Moor branch of the RBL, organised a recent meeting advising collectors about safety.

Among the suggestions were to work in pairs, keep in contact with owners or managers of premises where they are collecting, and not to tackle anyone trying to steal collecting tins.

Anyone over the age of 16 wanting to help the appeal is asked to call 0800 085 5924.