The Chatteris branch of the Royal British Legion was honoured for its ‘progress and efficiency’ when it won an award for the third time in a row.

The town’s RBL was awarded the Branch Efficiency Trophy – given to a small branch with less than 300 members which, during the year made the most progress and is of a high standard of efficiency – at the Annual County Conference.

For the 2015/2016 period the branch raised £15,211.72 for the Poppy Appeal – up by more than £2,000 on the 2014/2015 period.

Tina Prior, of the Chatteris RBL, said: “Each November the Remembrance service is always well supported with representatives from local groups and dignitaries among those laying wreaths.

“Last year the branch was joined by the French Military Attaché who laid a wreath on behalf of the French nation.

“We also had the company of the United States Visiting Forces RAF Alconbury, as well as local service personnel.

“The branch standard bearer, Robin Lake, represented the branch at over 70 different events, including a trip to Ypres in Belgium, the town remembrance parade, Armed Forces Day, Armistice Day, the commemoration of the 11th Suffolk Regt at the Battle of the Somme in Ely Cathedral and all of the Every Man Remembered ceremonies held throughout the year.”

“Each of these elements contributed to the award and it is a testament to the hard work and commitment of each of the branch committee members who strive to make it all happen.

“The Lister Cup is the national award for branch efficiency and is presented at the RBL National Conference in May each year. In 2004 the Chatteris branch was awarded the runner-up certificate for this award so we are crossing our fingers for this year!”

Criteria for the award includes: the number of members within the branch and recruitment methods, attendance at county and national conferences, standard bearers attendance at relevant events, welfare support, fundraising activities, raising awareness of remembrance and community involvement.

Seeking new members

The RBL Youth Section is seeking new members aged 12-17.

“Would your child like to help with fundraising, attending events help with community projects?” say the RBL.

“Does your child have an interest in our heritage?

“We have fortnightly meetings with burger/pizza nights, crafting, talks and trips out.”

Membership is free. For more information, email bizziebecky@btinternet.com or call 07796 215149.

Services

The Everyman Remembered services coming up are: Wed March 15 - Frederick John Wheaton, Sun March 26 - Arthur Papworth, Tues April 4 - Charles Henry Barber, Sun April 9 - Charles Henry Bull, Mon April 10 - Ernest Belshaw Saunders, Sat April 15 - Ernest Skeels, Thurs April 20 - Vere Francis, Wed April 26 - Arthur John Savage & Frederick Rose (MM)

“All services are held to commemorate Chatteris men that fought and died in WW1 on the 100th anniversary of their death,” say the Chatteris RBL.

“Everyone is welcome to join us at the war memorial at 11am - we especially like to welcome any family members.

Commonwealth Day

“Monday March 13 marks Commonwealth Day and the Chatteris RBL will be taking part in a flag raising ceremony by the war memorial,” said a RBL spokesman.

“This is an annual celebration which gives an opportunity for individuals, communities and organisations to promote the commonwealth’s shared values of peace, democracy and equality, and to celebrate the association’s rich diversity.

“The event is organised by Chatteris Town Council, and it is hoped as many people as possible will attend. It takes place at 10am.”

Branch quiz night

“Each month the branch hosts a quiz night and we are currently raising funds for the George Clare commemorations,” say the branch.

“We are hoping to present money or equipment to the George Clare Surgery in memory of Private Clare VC on the 100th anniversary of his death in November. “Quizzes take place at the Working Men’s Club, starting at 7pm.

“Future dates are: March 20, April 17, May 15.

“Everyone is welcome. Entry fee £1 per person.

“Winners receive a cash prize and a raffle is also held.”