THIS impressive life-size poppy man was created to bolster support for brave servicemen and women who have shed blood in conflicts including Iraq and Afghanistan.

The model, the work of Lytchett United Royal British Legion standard bearer Shirley Hawkins, took several days to complete and is covered in Legion poppies.

Shirley spent hours designing the model, based on the Legion’s 2008 poppy appeal poster, then covered it in papier mache, before painting it red and finishing with the poppies.

She said: “It was good fun making it with my husband and son.

“We did it to raise awareness of the poppy appeal, especially with so many young men fighting in Afghanistan at the moment.”

Legion branch committee member Helen Ewen said: “She made it to stir up interest in the Poppy Appeal, as it’s vital people continue to donate to the cause.”

The model has taken pride of place in the branch’s Dorchester Road clubhouse in Upton, Poole.

Club steward Jacqui Vacher said: “The model is really impressive – it’s proving a real talking point.

“Shirley’s put a lot of work into it, as she was eager to raise awareness of the Royal British Legion cause.”

Royal British Legion collectors will be out in force across the Bournemouth and Poole conurbation up until Remembrance Sunday.

This year marks a change for the Poppy Appeal as, for the first time, a repatriated coffin, from Afghanistan, is being used on campaign posters.

l Last week a man was threatened by two men and items were stolen during a raid at the Upton clubhouse.

The victim was threatened as he locked up for the night, at 11.45pm on Wednesday, October 22.

Dorset Police have appealed for witnesses.

Call them on 01202 222 222.