Royal British Legion branch wins battle for survival...for now (From Worcester News)
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Royal British Legion branch wins battle for survival...for now
7:30pm Wednesday 24th October 2012 in News By Tarik Al Rasheed
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BATTLING ON: Powick and Callow End Royal British Legion chairman Guy Phillips, right, with members Peter James, left, and John Mason, who is stepping up to the helm once again. Picture by John Anyon. 40143101.
A THREATENED Royal British Legion branch looks to have assured its survival for at least another year.
As we reported, the Powick and Callow End branch, near Worcester, has seen its membership fall by more than half in the last decade and, with doubts over its ability to fill its principal officer roles, it was feared it would not survive beyond its annual meeting in November.
However, former chairman John Mason was pleased to report that nominations for all five key roles have now been secured, and that he himself will be stepping up for a second term at the helm.
He said it was too early to determine what impact his appeal for more support had made, but that he would be doing everything possible to secure its survival.
“I do not intend the branch to fail under my custodianship,” he added.
The branch’s origins date back to 1921, when separate organisations were founded in both Powick and Callow End. They merged after the Second World War and membership continued to thrive, standing at a healthy 120 just 10 years ago.
However, that has now fallen below 50, with only about 10 people attending monthly meetings.
Mr Mason said branches all over the country had similar problems and believes there is still a common misconception that only those who have served in the forces can join.
Anyone who would like to join can call Mr Mason on 01905 830805.
