TWO highly decorated Second World War heroes have helped launch a scratchcard game which aims to raise cash for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal.

Lieutenant Colonel Eric Wilson, 92, from Stowell in Sherborne, and George Cross recipient Colonel Stuart Archer, 89, from North London, were joined by the girlfriend of singer Rod Stewart, Penny Lancaster, as they publicised the Legion's 2004 Poppy Appeal scratchcard.

Lt Col Wilson is one of only five surviving British Victoria Cross holders and was awarded the honour for his actions in Somaliland where, in 1940, under constant artillery bombardment, he defended his observation post for four days despite suffering from severe shrapnel wounds and malaria.

Officials thought it was so unlikely he survived the battle that he was reported "killed in action", and the VC was awarded posthumously. It was only when he was discovered safe and well in an Italian prisoner-of-war camp that he learned of the accolade.

Lt Col Wilson, who served with the East Surrey regiment, seconded to the Somaliland Camel Corps, said: "I'm delighted to do anything possible to help the Royal British legion in its work to raise money."

Asked how he felt when he heard the news he'd received his VC, he joked: "I was awarded it posthumously, which is a long word which means you're dead - but I wasn't."

Col Archer was awarded the George Cross for risking his life to help protect the oil refineries and airfields of South Wales from Luftwaffe bombs.

The sums raised from the Legion scratchcards will not only benefit veterans, but those serving in Iraq. The launch event was held at the Imperial War Museum in Central London.

The £1 instant win scratchcards, offering a range of cash prizes up to £10,000, are available from selected Post Office branches throughout the country as well as Sainsbury's and a range of independent retailers.

First published: October 8