ROYAL BRITISH LEGION: Members of the Rous Lench and Inkberrow branch of the Royal British Legion were joined by county vice chairman, Mr J A King, county secretary Mrs Hannon and county poppy co-ordinator Mr Hannon as they stood in silent tribute to their fallen comrades at the start of the AGM which was held at The Flyford Arms on November 5.

Members were sorry to hear of the poor health of Mrs Simpson and Mr George Briney.

The president, Mr Bill Gregg, gave a report on the year's activities which sadly included the funerals of Major Milner, Bob Hewlett, Ray Masters and Jim Burford, the standard being paraded at all the services as well as at the civic ceremony at Pershore Abbey and the 80th celebration of the Pershore branch in October.

A most enjoyable evening was held in July to mark the presentation of certificates to poppy collectors. Mr Gregg thanked all those who had hosted coffee mornings on behalf of the Poppy Appeal and Mr Frank Redfern for refurbishing the seat at Holberrow Green which is the hamlet's war memorial.

Mr Phil Laight gave his report as chairman, thanking all the officers for their work and Mr Roger Hunt and the landlord of the Flyford Arms for their support. He reminded members that the coming year marked the 75th anniversary of the branch.

Mr Patrick Perkins, treasurer, Mr Bill Gregg, service secretary, Mr John Whitfild, secretary and Miss Nancy Reynolds, poppy organiser, all gave their reports and were thanked for their work during the year.

The minutes of the last AGM were read and approved and the balance sheet accepted. Officers and committee members were elected en bloc.

The county vice-chairman then addressed the meeting and read a moving poem on the subject of the Poppy Appeal. He then made long-service award presentations in respect of 25 years and 30 years service to Miss Nancy Reynolds and surprised everyone by also presenting her with a framed copy of the poem.

Members endorsed the thanks he gave to Miss Reynolds in recognition of her long and faithful service to the appeal.