CUSTOMERS at Tesco stores across Essex are being asked to donate to this year's poppy appeal in the lead up to Remembrance Day.

Unil November 12, volunteers from the Royal British Legion will be in stores encouraging families to donate to the cause.

Last year's customer donations saw £3.1million raised as the charitiy sold iconic poppies in all Tesco stores.

Rhys Little, chairman of the Armed Forces Network at Tesco, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our links to the Armed Forces, and we want to support the valuable work of the Royal British Legion and Poppyscotland in supporting serving personnel, veterans, and their families.

“Our customers have helped to raise incredible funds which are helping them to support veterans deal with injuries, build lives and careers after leaving the forces and remember the sacrifice made for the safety of all of us.”

As the largest employer of veterans leaving the armed forces, Tesco will also encourage customers to round up their shop to the nearest pound at self-service tills to donate from November 3 to November 5. 

Just a few extra pence quickly add up, and last year, this raised more than £135,000 - making a significant contribution to the millions raised in stores.

Andy Taylor-Whyte, director of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, said: “Life in the Armed Forces comes with unique challenges for those serving and their families both during and after service.

"The generous donations from Tesco customers during the Poppy Appeal allow the Royal British Legion to provide support in many ways, from befriending services for those who are lonely, help with finances and housing, or recovery programmes after injury and illness.”