Dear Members,

I am writing to inform you that I will be standing down as Chairman of Kingsclere Royal British Legion Branch. This is a decision that has not been taken lightly. Due to personal reasons and work commitments, as well as the increasing difficulty of covering the range of roles required to sustain the branch effectively, I feel that it is in the best interests of the Branch to consider an alternative solution to what hopefully is a short to medium term issue.

To ensure continuity and explore a viable path forward, I propose that we hold a Special General Meeting (SGM) on Tuesday 2^nd of June. The intention would be to invite County representation, discuss the option of moving the branch under County control, and take a vote. This is by far a better course of action than proceeding toward closure.

As part of this process, County will require two points of contact from the branch. I would encourage members to consider whether they are willing to take on these roles, hopefully on an interim basis and until more members/volunteers come forwards.

I continue to promote the Branch in an effort to drive more interest around volunteering but also feel it’s important to highlight that I nor the Branch will be in a position to organise/run this year’s Remembrance Parade. As this is a civic event, responsibility should appropriately fall to the Parish Council going forward something which I will seek to remind the Parish Council on. 

I have also spoken to Chris Hayward with regard to the Poppy Appeal. We have agreed and she is content for the Poppy Appeal to continue with me as the Poppy Appeal Organiser for the district and understands that I may need to pause my support at short notice if necessary.

I appreciate the support and commitment shown by members during my time as Chairman, and I hope that, with County support, the Branch can continue to serve the community in its intended way.

The SGM will be the next meeting on 2^nd June at 7.30pm. Please note I am unable to conduct any meeting on 5^th May due to working abroad, you are welcome to arrange to meet as normal providing someone attending has a key. 

Registered Charity Number: 219279

Royal British Legion, Haig House, 199 Borough High Street, London SE1 1AA 

The Royal British Legion | Armed Forces Charity