Alan Baker hopes his passion for poppies will inspire generous Swindonians to donate £25,000.

The 64-year-old is the man behind the annual Royal British Legion Appeal in Swindon. It has been a frantic year for Mr Baker.

In July, the Adver revealed how he had only four days to find a new Swindon base for the appeal or leave the town poppy-less for the first time since 1922.

Fortunately, the business community rallied round and Mr Baker is now enjoying life at Newburn House in the town centre.

"It has been quite a year. It is wonderful the appeal now has a permanent home and I am grateful to everyone who offered to help," he said.

Mr Baker said the offers of help had 'turned a possible Dunkirk into a D-Day'.

With accommodation problems a thing of the past, Mr Baker is busy preparing for this year's appeal launch.

"I hope we will raise £25,000 this year. Last year I was delighted the Swindon total was more than £23,000. Let's keep that support going," he said.

The Swindon branch of the Legion will have a poppy stall in the Brunel Centre on November 3 and 4.

While poppies provide a large chunk of the Swindon cash, another important fundraiser is the Annual Festival of Remembrance, of which Mr Baker is the chairman. The 16th annual event will be held at the Wyvern Theatre on Sunday November 5 at 6.30pm.

Tickets for the Annual Festival of Remembrance can be obtained from the Wyvern Theatre box office on 01793 614837.