The Poppy Appeal in Leicestershire and Rutland has smashed all fund-raising records with its collection over the past few months.
Initial figures show collectors raised nearly £507,000 as part of the 2014 appeal - an 11 per cent increase on 2013.
Fund-raisers believe people have donated in force in response to this year's drive remembering the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War.
County fundraiser for the Royal British Legion Giles Coleman said: "We are delighted that our provisional figures are the highest ever.
"It is clear that people have responded to the fact that the First World War was the first global war which involved and affected the whole population.
"That resonates with today as people are made aware through the media of conflicts such as Iraq and Afghanistan."
He said: "Our initial figures show an increase of 11 per cent over last year and is a record. In Rutland we did particularly well with a 21 per cent rise.
"I would like to thank all the volunteers who have helped to make it a record year so that we can continue to work to support current and former service personnel and their families."
He said fundraising would continue throughout the year before the launch of the next Poppy Appeal in October.
In Harborough district, Dave Pryor said a record £30,000 had been collected so far compared to £26,000 to the year before
Among the fundraising initiatives was a Smart car covered in poppies and a scene from the First World War which was used to raise the profile of the appeal.
Mr Pryor said: "We drove the Smart car to the Menin Gate to attend the ceremonies on November 11. We shall be using the vehicle to promote the Poppy Appeal in the next few years."
He added: "However, we would still like to hear from people who are prepared to give an hour to act as volunteer collectors."
In Barwell and Earl Shilton there was an increase of 17 per cent in funds raised making a total of £6,118.60p.
A spokesman said: "Your commitment to helping the Poppy Appeal in our community is sincerely appreciated, specially against a backdrop of the cost of living crisis which is effecting this area more than most."
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