Bomb disposal experts in Didcot today launched this year's Oxfordshire Poppy Appeal.

This year fundraisers are hoping a record-breaking £575,000 will be raised to support servicemen and their families across the county.

The launch took place at 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment, where a remote-control Cutlass robot, used to make safe improvised explosive devices, was used to deliver the first poppy to the Vice Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire.

Troops also marked the occasion by blasting paper poppy petals into the air.

The launch of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal was backed by the Felix Fund, the bomb disposal charity based in Didcot.

Captain James Dray, of 11 EOD, said the regiment at Vauxhall Barracks were delighted to support the appeal.

He added that six soldiers from the base who died in the Afghanistan conflict would continue to be remembered.

Captain Dray said their families were supported by the Poppy Appeal and added: "They will always be remembered by soldiers at this regiment.

"We have received a lot of support from the RBL and from Felix Fund, so it's great that we can help to launch this year's appeal.

"We always get great support from the people of Didcot and streets in the town have been named after the six soldiers who died."

Mr Harwood said it was 'very dramatic' when he received the first poppy from the Cutlass, a manoeuvrable wheeled robot.

He added: "The Cutlass is a critical part of dealing with bombs and improvised explosive devices.

"It's very sophisticated and packages can be examined remotely without soldiers having to risk their own lives."

County chairman of the RBL Lynda Atkins said previous Poppy Appeal launches have taken place at RAF Brize Norton and RAF Benson and this year it was the turn of Vauxhall Barracks.

She said: "The poppy and the work of the legion are often associated with the two world wars and elderly veterans.

"However, the legion is also calling on the public to consider all generations of  the Armed Forces community when they wear their poppy.

"This launch demonstrates how the RBL is working with those currently serving in Oxfordshire."

Melanie Moughton, spokeswoman for Felix Fund, said: "We have worked with the RBL to help a number of ex-soldiers in need."

Brian Leach, 48, a father-of-five from Bicester, was injured in Iraq in 2004 and medically discharged in 2010.

He said: "The support the RBL gives me is invaluable."

Lieutenant Colonel Brian Howard, Commanding Officer of 11 EOD Regiment, said: "Many of the regiment's soldiers and their families have benefited from both charities and will continue to do so in years to come as we counter explosive threats daily at home and abroad."

"Being able to take part in this year's Oxfordshire Poppy Appeal launch is a real privilege and we are honoured to help raise awareness of these important causes."