ROYAL BRITISH LEGION: The total amount collected by this branch was £5,601.73, and it exceeded our year 2000 collection by £222.09. Last year we were collecting in some very wet weather - with Eckington Bridge not accessible due to the very severe flooding. The collections in our villages of Eckington, Birlingham, Defford-cum-Besford and Strensham amounted to £1,115.36. Members and kind friends sold poppies for 15 days at Strensham motorway services, south side by kind permission of 'Road Chef', who have, with previous management, allowed our branch to use their premises for the poppy day appeal. This year the total amount raised, including collection points at shops and garages came to £3,988.87. Last October the branch held a social evening, proceeds from this event and a donation from local funds amounted to £200, which was forwarded to a Royal British Home, 'Galanos House', near Rugby. This special retirement home is now being completely modernised and refurbished for the well being of members and associates.