FUNDRAISING for Poppyscotland, which helps war veterans and their families, is taking place in a different way this year in Musselburgh due to Covid-19 restrictions.

The collection, organised by Musselburgh & Inveresk Community Council, is taking place online in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday on November 8.

The group said: “Normally at this time of year we are busy placing poppies into the shops around the town but, due to present guidelines, we are having to fundraise for Poppyscotland in a different way this year.

“Sadly, we are unable to make use of the fantastic help normally offered to us by the air, sea and army cadets so, this year, we are collecting via a JustGiving page and we hope you will support us in our efforts.”

The Remembrance Sunday service at the Second World War Memorial at The Mall will not take place this year, also due to Covid-19 restrictions.

The community council hopes that a wreath will be laid at the memorial as near to 11am as possible to mark the annual commemoration.

Other individuals and organisations can lay wreaths at other times.

Ward councillor Stuart Currie mooted the idea of collating photos of wreath laying by individual councillors and organisations into a slideshow.

The Scottish Poppy Appeal raises more than £2 million each year. This, combined with its other year-round fundraising, enables the charity to provide tailored support and funding to thousands of ex-servicemen and women, as well as other services in advice, employment, mobility, respite, housing and mental health support.

To support the Musselburgh appeal, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/AO-Musselburgh