A WHITEFIELD woman who has endured all weathers to sell poppies for the past 65 years has been honoured for her unstinting devotion.

Thelma Jolly, who will celebrate her 80th birthday later this year, began her remarkable service to the poppy appeal at the age of 15. Over the past six and a half decades, she has braved the elements to sell poppies in the run-up to Remembrance Sunday.

But for a chance conversation with Bury's honorary poppy appeal organiser, Lieutenant Colonel Eric Davidson, she may not have received the full recognition of the Royal British Legion in tribute to her service.

Thelma took pride of place at Bury's annual Poppy Appeal Awards held at the Town Hall when people received certificates for five, 10 and 15 years of service.

Lt Col Davidson told how late last year, he met Thelma at Asda in Pilsworth where she was selling poppies inside. Although she received her 50 years award 15 years ago, Thelma had not been honoured for subsequent years of service.

"At the presentation, she received awards for 55 years, 60 years and 65 years," he said.

Commenting on her remarkable years of service to the poppy appeal, Lt Col Davidson continued: "It's quite incredible. I've never know this before and neither has anyone else. To receive an award for 65 years is very esteemed."

Thelma, who lives in Elms Farm, received the awards from Col Vaughn Kent-Payne, manager of the Royal British Legion North West.

Among the recipients of the Bury Poppy Appeal Awards were three Air Force, Army and Sea cadets who were recognised for collecting the most amount of money.