Brief History Of Sherston
British Legion
Sherston Branch of the
Royal British Legion was formed in 1946. It was quite a problem to
keep going because at that time they did not have anywhere
permanent to hold their meetings.
It was rough going for
quite a while, holding meetings where ever they could. This was not
easy as they had a membership of close to 100. After much
searching, finally a venue suitable to accommodate such numbers was
found in the village.An extraordinary meeting was called to decide
if it was a viable proposition to attempt to purchase the
property.This all took place in June 1949.
All members were asked if
they would be willing to make a donation or loan in an attempt to
raise the deposit needed to purchase the
property.
This property known
as The Tolsey which stands in the middle of the High Street, a
very suitable location. The property was two storeys high and could
accommodate all members. The only problem
was the top story floor was none too good so it could
only be used for whist drives and beetle drives or other light
entertainment. The loan was finally secured and with rent being
charged for use of rooms for whist and beetle drives, and because
the ground floor was equipped with a shower room,
the village football club were able to rent this
facility. By collection of these rents and various fund raising
activities the property was eventually
paid for. There was a considerable sized hall
downstairs where there were 2 snooker tables ,darts and card
tables. The only problem was it was never licensed for the sale of
alcohol but never the less many good times were had
by all.
This unfortunately all came to an end in the early
1950's as membership numbers declined. It was found difficult to
keep it as a financially sound investment; so it was sold and
the monies invested.
Sherston Royal British Legion managed to keep going
until late in 2008 when we were again getting very low in numbers.
It was decided to call a meeting to ask members what they wanted to
do. There were 2 options , one, to close the branch , the
second one was to approach Malmesbury Branch to see if it was
possible to amalgamate our two branches .
After discussions it was decided the second option was possible so
the amalgamation went ahead and that is where we find ourselves
today June 2011.
Malcolm Hillier.
Sherston Standard Bearer.
