Prime Minister Andy Burnham has welcomed armed forces veterans and Poppy Appeal collectors to No 10 North to mark the start of this year’s campaign.

Mr Burnham made a contribution to the appeal at his office in Manchester, in a twist on the tradition of prime ministers making their donation on the steps of No 10 Downing Street.

Bradford schoolgirl Ivy Knighton-Leake, six, who is one of the country’s youngest Poppy Appeal volunteers, was among those to meet the Prime Minister on Thursday.

She collects alongside her mother Kimberley Leake and father Steve Knighton, who was supported by the Royal British Legion (RBL) as he adjusted to civilian life after serving six years in the Army.

Ivy was joined by veterans Anthony Coughlan, who suffered life-changing injuries in Afghanistan, former RAF Senior Aircraftwoman Naomi Hall and former Army Captain Laurence Moore.

Mr Burnham said: “This time of year gives us the opportunity to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served, remember those who never came home, and show our gratitude to the entire veterans and armed forces community.

“I also want to put on record my personal thanks to those who have served, and those who continue to serve today, to protect our national security and keep our country safe- thank you for your service and the sacrifice you and your loved ones make.

“Every donation made to the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal will help support those who have served and give back to those who have done so much for us.”

Lucy Inskip, director of the RBL’s Poppy Appeal, said: “The Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal brings the nation together and helps us raise vital funds needed to support the armed forces community.

“This year, we’re proud to be highlighting the important role families play in supporting service personnel and the unique sacrifices they make.

“It is often overlooked that when someone serves their family serves too.”