WREATHS of poppies have been laid in Huddersfield town centre to mark the start of this year's Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

The Mayor of Kirklees, Clr Mary Harkin, laid the first wreath during a special service in Market Place on Saturday.

Prayers were led by Royal British Legion chaplain the Rev Jim Deardon and the Vicar of Huddersfield, the Rev Catherine Ogle.

Jack Westwood, president of Huddersfield Royal British Legion, gave a speech in memory of those who have died in conflicts.

Since the Second World War, there has only been one year when a British service person has not died on active service.

The money raised by selling poppies during the appeal supports the families of those who have died, retired servicemen and women, and people who have been injured serving in conflicts.

The Royal British Legion has been providing this support for the past 80 years.