Poppies on lapels will be worn with added pride this year on the centenary of the First World War as the Royal British Legion launches its annual appeal.

In the town known for its large turnout during repatriations, the drive will be stronger than ever to raise vital funds for veterans, bereaved families and injured servicemen.

Royal Wootton Bassett launched its appeal on Saturday with a gift from 64-year-old Vera Drewett, who spent five months crocheting a chain of 100 poppies to decorate the High Street war memorial.

Mrs Drewett said: “I was off work for a while with a bad leg and just started putting it together.

“I wanted to make 100 of them because obviously it is 100 years this year. I made it to 100 and there are a few more for luck.

“My grandchildren call me ‘Knit-knit’ because I do do a lot of knitting. I’ve been doing it since I was about seven or eight. There wasn’t much to do when I was young!

“My father, father-in-law and mother-in-law were all in the war. My son-in-law Simon used to be in the RAF but is now in the Canadian air force. I’ve not really got involved in the past but the poppies have always been a passion of mine.”

Bryan Kingscote, president of the Royal Wootton Bassett branch of the British Legion, said the fact it was a centenary year had generated more interest in the appeal.

“It seems to have gone a bit manic,” he said. “I’ve only just had a call for five extra wreaths, and wooden crosses are proving very popular this year.

“The crochet poppies are beautiful and Vera has done an amazing job,” he added.

The Royal British Legion will also be at the annual Lydiard Park Remembrance Day in the Walled Garden. Thousands of wooden crosses will be planted ahead of the event on November 7.