ROYAL BRITISH LEGION: The Act of Remembrance which is the traditional opening of any Royal British Legion meeting, had added poignancy at the AGM of the Rous Lench and Inkberrow branch, which was held at the Flyford Arms of Tuesday, November 4, when the chairman, Mr P Laight, was saddened to record the deaths of nine members during the preceding 12 months.

Reports were given by the president, Mr W Gregg, the chairman and Mr J Whitfield, secretary and membership secretary who spoke of the need to recruit new members.

Mr Laight thanked everyone who had helped during the past year including poppy sellers and the hosts of the coffee mornings, Mr and Mrs K Hill, Mrs and Mrs P Steel and (a new venue this year) the Rose and Crown at Feckenham. Two of these events had already taken place and raised £250 and £206 respectively - an increase on last year.

Mr Laight and his wife were in turn thanked for hosting a wine and cheese evening which had raised £770 for funds.

The chairman paid particular tribute to Mr Gregg who has indicated his intention to retire as president later in the year and to retiring vice chairman Mr M Mills who has served in this office for 20 years.

The accounts prepared by the treasurer, Mr P Perkins, were presented and adopted by the meeting. Mr Perkins is now Poppy Appeal organiser for the branch and it was confirmed that 52 boxes had been prepared out this year.

Following the election of the officers and committee for the forthcoming year, details of the Remembrance services were confirmed.

Mr Fred Sutor-Hulse reported that he had laid a wreath on behalf of members at the Menim Gate during his recent visit to Belgium.