The Chatteris branch of the Royal British Legion held its 2016 annual meeting with branch standard bearers Robin Lake and Janice Baines on duty.
Chairman Norman Larke led the meeting and said it was felt the year did not begin particularly well, with several planned events being cancelled due to a lack of support from the community.
However, the year finished on a much more positive note with a successful Remembrance week and good early indications for an increase in funds for the Poppy Appeal- largely due to collections in the new Aldi store.
Issues discussed included the 2017 project to commemorate George Clare VC, plans to renew and repair the railings around the war memorial and plans for spot-lights for the war memorial.
The family of the late Kenneth and Margaret Gowler attended to present the annual youth award.
This was set up in memory of their parents to help promote and encourage young people’s involvement in the work of the RBL.
The award went to Molly Goodman. During the year she represented the branch at a number of events, including a last post service at The Menin Gate, during the Belgium trip in August and wreath laying at the Remembrance Parade in Chatteris.
Andy Behagg was also awarded a certificate of appreciation for his tireless efforts with the Poppy Appeal and his regular help with events.
Friday 18 marked the 100th anniversary of the end of The Battle of the Somme and to remember the sacrifice made by the men of Chatteris, the branch organised a Battles End event.
Ghost soldiers were on duty around the town dressed in authentic WW1 uniforms and with replica rifles.
Cards were handed out to represent one of the 30 Chatteris men who were killed on the Somme.
The event ended in a service at the war memorial at 5pm which ended with the ghost soldiers disappearing back in time.
The events were organised by Jane Lake, Nicky Stockman and Becky Edgley-Cooper.
• A concert, organised by the branch, with the band of The Royal Anglian Regiment, is in the church on Saturday Nov 26. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tickets £10. Contact Norman 01354 694 375 or lornajones2803@gmail.com.
.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here