A FORCES veteran from Evesham put back on his feet by the Royal British Legion has returned the favour by raising more than £10,000 for the charity.

Phillip Speed, a funeral service crew member at Co-op Funeralcare, Evesham, has collected the sum over a five-year period.

He was helped to find accommodation by the legion after serving for 22 years in the army, including tours of Ireland and Bosnia and service in the Gulf War, and was quick to highlight the charity’s need for ongoing support outside annual poppy appeals.

“A lot of people give money to The Royal British Legion in November but not everyone realises that donations are vital all year round to support veterans and their families when it comes to their health, housing, finance and much more,” said Mr Speed.

“The Legion helped me when I came out of the forces and I needed assistance back in 2011.

“They found me accommodation and supported me when I needed it the most, and I want to thank them for that by volunteering for them, supporting veterans and their families.

“I have been a case worker for the Legion for more than eight years and I have been selling poppies for the past five years.

“Over that time the Evesham community has helped me raise more than £10,000, which wouldn’t have been possible without them.

“This year alone, I raised more than £2,400, which I am thrilled about, especially as times are tough for a lot of people.

“I really cannot thank the local people of Evesham enough for their generosity, how much it means to me and the people I speak to as a case worker every day.

“Each year, the people of Evesham never fail to surprise me with their kindness. You never know why someone is in the situation they are in.

“If you can offer anything to the Legion, it may not seem like a lot to you, but is huge for the person receiving.”

The Royal British Legion will begin celebrating its centenary year next year. To donate, visit: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk