Sixty years on from the end of World War II, Bradford's Royal British Legion branch has set itself an ambitious target for this year's Poppy Appeal total.

The district's branch wants to raise £60,000 - £1,000 for each year passed since the end of the bloodiest conflict in history.

The announcement was made yesterday at City Hall when the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Valerie Binney,

officially launched this year's appeal.

The Royal British Legion's annual Poppy Appeal is held to raise money to help support former servicemen and their families.

Coun Binney said: "It's a high total but I just say 'go for it'.

"When you think about it, it is only £1,000 for each year, nothing compared to what these people went through for us and are going through for us right now.

"That something that lot of people do not realise about the British Legion.

"The work they do helps not just the families and veterans of World War I and II. We still have wars going on now and those involved in the services still need our help."

Last year the Bradford district enjoyed a record-breaking year from its Poppy Appeal, amassing a total of £42,500. The figure was £17,000 higher then in 2003

and British Legion organisers

hope that this year's total will be even higher.

Barbara Allsopp, of the Bradford Central Division, said: "Last year's response was fantastic and this year we want to go even further. £60,000 is something special to aim for."

As well as hoping to collect as much cash as possible, Mrs Allsopp said she was keen to attract new volunteers to the service.

"We haven't got that many any more as the numbers dwindle with each passing year.

"We need at least six more people to make this year a success.

"We are also looking for people to stand with tins during the days that surround Poppy Day to help boost the collections. It just takes a few hours of your time and is really worthwhile."

Also attending the launch of the appeal was World War II veteran Richard Styan. A member of the British Legion for 48 years, Mr Styan said the work the charity did today was as important as ever.

"We still have casualties and widows being caused by the conflict in Iraq, not to mention the families of those who lost their lives in previous conflicts.

"I think this year's target is a good one. To make the jump from a record-breaking total last year again will take some work but it would be great."

To make a donation to the poppy appeal, call (01274) 726020.