The local branch of the Royal British Legion, which meets on the first Monday of the month at the Babworth Road Sports and Social Club in Retford, has had some interesting speakers in recent months.
In February, Judith Goodall shared her experiences as an Eyes On Hands On volunteer for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Her talk concluded with a captivating mystery surrounding a burial in Retford Cemetery, potentially leading to the commemoration of a forgotten WWI casualty.
In March, Grant Cullen from the Worksop Branch provided an illustrated journey through the Western Front, offering background information and showcasing various significant memorials. Adrian Sumner from RAFA entertained the branch in April with a presentation on the Berlin airlift. There was no meeting in May due to the Bank Holiday, but the upcoming meeting on 5th June will feature a presentation by a representative from the Food Bank.
Meetings start at 7.15pm; new members always welcome.
A successful quiz night was held on 17th March where teams were challenged with a wide range of knowledge-based questions. All proceeds went towards the prize money, with raffle prizes and snacks generously donated.
The final tally for the recent Poppy Appeal reached an impressive sum of nearly £46,000. This outstanding achievement was made possible by the efforts of the new Poppy Appeal Organisers, Peter Pimperton and Scott Harrison, in the Harworth area. This couldn’t have happened without the support of numerous volunteers and the generosity of the local community. Plans are already underway to expand the Poppy drop at Retford Town Hall; anyone with knitted or crocheted poppies can bring them to Goodwin Hall on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
On Saturday 3rd June, the branch will have a stall at Retford market. Feel free to visit if you need assistance, information, or if you are interested in offering your help or becoming a member. New members are always welcome. Additionally, on Saturday 1st July, the branch will oversee the Grove Street Methodist Church coffee morning from 10.00am to 12.00pm.
During Armed Forces Week in June, it is anticipated that the RBL flag, generously donated by Charity on Wheels, will once again be raised in Kings Park. Furthermore, the branch, along with other organisations, is planning to plant a tree later in the year to commemorate the Coronation of King Charles III.
To check if you qualify for help, phone 0808 802 8080.