A SMALL North Yorkshire market town could set a national precedent on Remembrance Sunday when it becomes the first to lay a wreath to honour those wounded in battle.

Until now, poppies left by the Queen at the Cenotaph in London and on war memorials around the UK have been in memory of those who lost their lives fighting for their country.

However, in response to a request from the daughter of Richmond veteran, the Kent company which makes the Poppy Day lapel badges for the Royal British Legion has agreed to make a special wreath which she can lay on Sunday, November 10, in memory of her father, who was wounded twice during the First World War.

"It all started at a meeting at Richmond Castle in the summer, called by those who were objecting to a memorial to conscientious objectors imprisoned there during the Second World War," said Sheila Russell.

Richmond Royal British Legion member David Johnson took up the baton and approached the manufacturers of the traditional poppy badges to see if they could help.

The first wreath arrived in Richmond this week, well in time for this year's Remembrance Day parade.

Mrs Russell's father, Arthur Wood, who served with the Green Howards, was shot in the hip during the Battle of the Somme.

He was sent home to recuperate but was subsequently posted back to France, where he later lost an arm.

"Being injured affected the rest of his life," said Mrs Russell.

"It would be lovely if other towns and cities decided to follow suit by paying tribute to the war wounded by laying wreaths, and I hope it is a tradition which will carry on in Richmond."