FORTY bikers formed a guard of honour as the first poppies of this year's Royal British Legion Appeal in Notts were sold at County Hall.

The annual campaign to raise money for members of the Armed Forces and their families was launched yesterday.

The first poppies were bought by county council chairman Tom Pettengell and Lord Lieutenant of Notts Sir Andrew Buchanan.

Veteran Bill Lawrenson took their donation in front of the bikers who rode from the Victoria Embankment to mark the day.

The group was made up of members of the Royal British Legion, the Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club and the Widow's Sons Masonic Bikers Association.

Paul "Monty" Moncaster, who led the team, said the number of bikers had "far exceeded" what he expected.

He said: "We all believe in the ethos of the Legion."

Council officials arranged for the bikers to ride to County Hall for the ceremony without stopping by making sure traffic lights were on green for them.

Poppy Man, a human figure made from wire and poppies, was also put in place outside County Hall to mark the start of the annual appeal.

Last year the national Poppy Appeal raised just under £35 million to help provide support to millions who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces, or their dependants.

The event also marked by the launch of the book Their Names Will Live On, written by Nottingham Post journalist Andy Smart.

It features more than 60 unsung military heroes, including a Notts man who fought in the First World War trenches and a Mercian Regiment soldier decorated for bravery in Afghanistan. A donation of £2 for each copy sold will go to the Royal British Legion.

Barbara Danter, 84, of West Bridgford, who was in the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) during the Second World War, attended the ceremony.

She said: "I love events like this. I think the present situation in Afghanistan puts this in the public mind.

"It is not just about the ones who are lost, it is about the ones who are damaged or lose a limb and need a lifetime of support."

Councillor Pettengell said the number of bikers who attended was "absolutely fabulous".

He added: "I hope a message goes out these bikers are doing a wonderful job.

"In the last two or three years the message has become loud and clear of respect [for the veterans]."