Elgin's Poppy Scotland appeal raises record amount
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The generosity of local people has seen a record amount raised this year by Elgin's branch of Poppy Scotland.
With the counting still not fully complete the total so far is £27,566.
That's £450 more than last year which, itself, was the highest amount previously.
Lieutenant Colonel David Broadfoot MBE, a former Gordon Highlander, is the chairman of Elgin's Poppy Scotland committee.
He said: "As with 2022, we approached 2023 with some trepidation because of the cost-of-living crisis.
"However, following the committee meeting in late September – a group that not only continues to grow in numbers but is also getting younger – it was full steam ahead whatever the current situation might be.
"The usual 300-plus tins went out at the start of the fortnight and, in the second week, teams manned the static positions at Tesco, Asda and M&S.
"The generosity of those three main collecting points cannot be overstated. We owe them, and their wonderfully helpful staff, a huge vote of thanks.
"We also must thank all the smaller businesses, clubs, schools, hospitals and, above all, the people of Elgin and its surrounding area. Their generosity knows no bounds as they rallied round yet again.
"Our thanks also go out to the staff of Virgin Money on the High Street who gather in and count all that we pass to them – and always with a huge smile.
"We would also like to thank all at RAF Lossiemouth who give us such wonderful support despite their ever-increasing worldwide commitments. "It is important also to mention our younger collectors who represent the next generation and include the Sea Cadets, the Air Cadets, the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers, and the pupils of Gordonstoun School.
"Finally, my thanks go to the committee and some 50 plus volunteers who give up their own time, standing for hours in very often cold and cramped locations."
