THE Royal British Legion at Chatteris is celebrating its 90th anniversary in style this summer, with a full programme of events being held in the town.

Highlights of the festivities will include an anniversary service at the parish church on July 3, when new standards for both the branch and the Women’s Section - who are celebrating their 65th anniversary - will be dedicated.

Later that month, the magnificent Minden Band of the Queen’s Division will perform a concert to raise funds for the Poppy Appeal.

“The branch was formed on June 30 1921; it has a proud history, and over the years has helped many ex-servicemen and their families,” said chairman Norman Larke.

“When the branch was first formed, members met in the Services Club, at the rear of the Empress Cinema. We still abide by the same principals established 90 years ago, to help service personnel, ex-service personnel and their families.”

Money for the Royal British Legion’s service work is raised through The Poppy Appeal. Last year a record amount, of more than �7,000, was raised in the town.

“We have case workers who can help provide anything from mobility equipment to respite care in one of our care homes,” added Norman.

The anniversary service at the parish church will include the laying up of standards and the dedication of new standards, followed by tea.

Other events coming up include a coffee morning today (Friday) outside the parish church; a Poppy Party at the Working Men’s Club on June 11; and a wreath laying ceremony at the town’s war memorial on Armed Forces Day, June 24, when a certificate will be presented to the Cromwell Community College, to mark its affiliation with the branch.

The concert by the Minden Band is to raise cash for the Poppy Appeal, tickets cost �10.

Branch meetings are held on the second Monday of each month; anyone who would like to get involved can contact Norman Larke on 01354 694375.