A POPPY appeal has been launched in a North-East town to remember war dead and help injured servicemen.

Durham County Council chairman Councillor Brian Myers started the Consett and District appeal at Christchurch in Consett yesterday.

Organiser Vera Parnaby has been involved with the Royal British Legion since her father, George Richardson, died during the Second World War.

This year she hopes to top the £14,000 she raised from people in Consett and the surrounding area last year.

Mrs Parnaby, from Blackhill, Consett, said: "It is very important for all of our ex-servicemen and our families for years to come.

"There are young people in Afghanistan that are risking their lives.

"They are getting younger and younger and need the support of the poppy appeal."

Coun Myers will launched the Durham City appeal with Mayor Dennis Southwell on Monday morning at Durham Town Hall.

He said: "The significance is that men have given their lives so we have the quality of life that we do.

"It is most important that we remember them. This is a charity that never dies. People are so generous. It is amazing."