WHEN the Cornish Pirates recently played Exeter Chiefs at the Mennaye Field in their first Premiership Cup game of the season, the magnificent sum of £1,340.41 was raised for the Royal British Legion.

It was a wonderful effort by a small group of collectors led by Brian Venn, who well-known locally is a stalwart Poppy organiser for Penzance.

Keen to thank the Cornish Pirates and all supporters who contributed to the collection on the evening, Brian said: “As I have said before, the Pirates, as long-time supporters of the Royal British Legion, annually help arrange for a collection to take place on a match occasion in their calendar which is nearest to Remembrance Day, November 11.

“The opportunity is certainly not taken for granted, and on behalf of the Legion I would like once again to thank both the club and the always generous rugby supporters, and not forgetting those who importantly helped with the collection.

“To raise such an excellent amount was outstanding and will enable the Legion to help those in need within the Armed Forces community, including members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families.”

For more information about the Royal British Legion, visit www.britishlegion.org.uk