A trio of needlework fans had fundraising for the Poppy Appeal in Helston all sewn up this year.

For the second year in a row Heathercraft in Coinagehall Street sold knitted poppies in aid of Helston’s Poppy Appeal for the Royal British Legion This year Avril Plunkett, who knitted every poppy herself last year, had a little help from fellow members of the Heathercraft Stitch Club.

Sarah Marlow, an RAF corporal, and another member Denise helped Avril to knit almost 200 poppies that were then sold instead of the paper version.

They raised £512.50, which has now been presented to Jenny Harvey, who organised this year’s appeal in the area for the first time.

Mrs Plunkett said: “I’m absolutely delighted with how much was raised. I can’t see we’ll make as much next year – this year was a high profile year.”

This time the project was sponsored by Sirdar Knitting Yarns, whose sales rep was so impressed by the work going on that he offered to provide the yarn free of charge.

Last year Mrs Plunkett paid for the materials herself, as a personal donation to the cause.

She has extra reason to support the charity, as her son Stephen is an army corporal with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

“He’s done a tour in Afghanistan,” she said. “We’ve always supported the British Legion but it’s a little bit more personal now.”

The stitch club meets in the shop every Wednesday from 7pm until 9pm, with everyone welcome. It is attended by beginners through to the very experienced, working on everything from knitting, to sewing and crochet – although any crafting is allowed.

Tea, coffee and biscuits are served, with the evening costing £1 for expenses.