Salt Church in Los Montesinos
Door open 6th June at 1830 hrs
Royal British Legion Concert 6th June doors open at 1830hrs
Tickets are available on request please contact -
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
June 6th (D-DAY) We are hosting a Charity Concert for the RBL. Tickets available at various venues or payment at the door, lots of raffles with excellent prizes including free tickets to Benidorm Palace.
The Concert a was a huge success thank you Mary & Malcolm Rusbridge & Everyone whom supported the Concert. The Salt Church venue is an amazing building, your individual Input was a fantastic show of teamwork all for the Branch & the RBL. The event raised much welcomed funds for the RBL Poppy Appeal, Gross €1735.14 & Net €871.12. The - De Costa Singers choir and The Orihuela Costa Blanca International Concert Band were second to none with an excellent performance they should all feel very proud, we thank you all. These events take a lot of physical planning and can be very demanding, without your support and co-operation we couldn't make these valued events happen.
27, 28, 29 May 2026 - Remembrance Letters & Poems from the Great War, for more information please contact Nick Smith from the Orihuela theatre group.The tragic accounts combined with the touching and heartbreaking poems form a powerful reflection on sacrifice, memory, and the importance of remembering those who lived, fought, and died during this world changing conflict.
As voices from the past are brought to life on stage, Remembrance reveals the human cost of conflict: the excitement of enlistment, the reality of life at the front, the pain of separation, and the longing for peace. Together, these personal accounts form a powerful reflection on sacrifice, memory, and the importance of remembering those who lived, fought, and died during the First World War.
The performance stands not only as a memorial, but as a reminder — that behind every name is a story, and behind every war are lives forever changed.
BOOKING OPENS IN EARLY MAY
Presented in Orihuela theatre and told entirely in English combined with numerous images and footage from the period, this moving production continues Networks Theatre’s tradition of bringing live drama of quality to the Costa Blanca region.
With a running time of approximately 55 minutes, Remembrance promises to be a memorable and emotional theatrical experience.
Nick Smith - [email protected]
Please note that this is not an RBL event, Listed only as Information
22nd MAY 2026 - OP TELIC 15th Anniversary,
A small remembrance parade was conducted, at the Mil Palmeras Church, the parade was completed with dignity and respect, we had the Pipe Major Mr Brian Day played a lament, the district Bugler Mr Mark Benton sounded the "Last Post", also for the first time in 5 years all of the 3 services standards on parade RNA RAFA and the Branch standard. Wreaths were also laid by representatives of all of the 3 Armed forces honouring the fallen, The poem "Flanders Field" was read out by Mr Bob Smith. other speeches were read out the Background and history of OP TELIC was read out by Mr Geoff Thomas, the Casualties of OP TELIC and personal experiences.
Read out was the list of all of the 178 Fallen servicemen & women from each of the Services who didn't come home but there memories will live on forever, the act of remembrance was read out by Mr Geoff Thomas The "RBL Prayer" & the "Lords Prayer" was read out by Mr John Lord & Mrs Julie Benton the readers were Mrs Louise Inness, Mrs Jo Rich, Mr Johno Johnson & Mr Bob Smith.
The parade concluded with the sounding of both Spanish & UK National Anthems. the Kohima Epitaph was read out by Mr Geoff Thomas parade was respectful and emotional but was conducted with pride and honour. kind donations from the public totalling €50 was raised to help us as the RBL to continue our help to support the Armed Forces Communities
Millions of words have been written, and the details debated, regarding the conflict: the history behind the invasion of Iraq; the efforts to stabilise the country; and the war’s legacy. What is not in dispute is the professionalism and dedication of the British Armed Forces during Operation TELIC.
Men and women of our Armed Forces joined the US-led Coalition in the invasion of Iraq in March 2003. Within a month, and under extreme conditions, our forces achieved their immediate objectives while facing repeated and deadly opposition. UK forces were primarily responsible for securing provinces in southern Iraq, including the city of Basra.
Coalition forces then began stabilisation operations, but violence escalated across Iraq, as a growing insurgency turned into a sectarian civil war that would claim tens of thousands of lives. Military and civilian Coalition personnel and the Iraqis working with them were targeted. For six years they faced deadly hazards including roadside bombs, snipers and mortar and rocket attacks while on patrol and in barracks.
Amid this, British forces and partners were engaged in providing humanitarian aid, helping local communities and in the painstaking rebuilding and reconstruction of both civil society and the Iraqi military services, in often austere conditions.
By the end of 2008 the situation had stabilised, and British combat operations ended in 2009. Most personnel left Iraq, leaving behind a number who continued the training of the Iraqi military. The last British personnel departed on 22nd May 2011: Op TELIC was at an end.
The duty in Iraq came at a high cost. Tragically, 179 British Armed Forces personnel lost their lives in Op TELIC. Thousands more were wounded, many with life-changing physical injuries. Others experienced emotional or mental ill-health as a result of their service in Iraq.
We remember how much we ask of our Armed Forces; and we acknowledge their dedication to service.
19th MAY 2026 MAYFEST
The Emerald Isle Charity event, was a massive success!! well done to everyone to all whom was involved producing a very successful event from Cakes, Clothes, handbags to Poppy stock, The day has had encouraging feedback, Orihuela Costa & District Branch, is back in business and is proof teamwork is key. No one should be singled out for special praise the Mayfest feedback from the public were nothing but encouraging and positive. Raffles were completed and football cards sold also kind donations received the Branch raised €885.31 and the Emerald Isle kindly donated €227 so total raised for this years Mayfest for the branch was €1112.31, what a brilliant fantastic afternoon.
May 8th 2026 - Lyrical Voice Group Choir - "A SUMMER SERENADE " at the White Church La Zenia. Step into an evening of melody, memory and musical magic as Lyrical welcomes the summer season in song.
May 1st 2026 - Next Branch General meeting is scheduled for 1600hrs at the Captains table as per the minutes of previous meeting, Music Bingo & Football cards will follow the meeting to raise vital funds as always, and please remember its "Fish & Chip" Friday.
April 23rd 2026 - Event - at the Royal Oak in Campoamor St Georges Day Lunch. Raffle & best dressed outfit, all money raised will go towards the Poppy Appeal.
Branch Lunch - It is with huge appreciation, our social events coordinator Mrs Caroline Connell, organised a fantastic event that was held in the Royal Oak, The lunch was a huge success with some of our members turning up in Fancy Dress, the food was delicious and the function was a a success. a raffle was put on with kind donations & raised 115.86 Euros for the poppy appeal the event was well organised we were all made to feel welcome and even the general public donated putting the branch and the Poppy Appeal in the public eye what a wonderful day.. thank you Caroline et All.
(Bob Smith our PAO as St George)
April 24th 2026 - Branch Committee meeting at the Captain's Table at 1600hrs.
April 24th 2026 - Bob Smith our PAO, is organising a series of Veterans Breakfasts, the first being in “The Tipsy Cow” in Campoverde on at 1030am.
If you wish to attend, please contact Bob at [email protected] to add your name(s),
April 17th 2026 - Basic life support & first Aid training course completed
April 6th 2026 - It is with huge appreciations & the kind donations from the Vega Baja Veterans social Group, whom held its monthly lunch today, 100 Euros were raised, in support of the Poppy Appeal. Massive thank you for your continued support.
(Pictured Kathy Bennett & Geoff Thomas in receipt of 100 Euros)
April 14th 2026
"La Gunna Tavern" on Vistabella Golf in Entre Naranjos, raises 320.20 euros for the Poppy Appeal, During 8 horse races full of happy bets and against the odds, however, All donations made went straight to the Poppy Appeal a huge Thank you for these valuable funds and donations.
(Paul Nixon, Mark Benton & Geoff Thomas in receipt of 320.20 Euros)
Apr 11th 2026 - the branch now have 2 Qualified Standard Bearers with Kind thanks to Dave Brettle Spain District Norths Parade Marshal, Robert Smith & Robert Smith being put through the paces by the Parade Marshal
Expo Torrevieja returns on April 11th and 12th, 2026 with two days of inspiration, entertainment and community spirit
Day 2 EXPO TORREVIEJA - 12th April 2026
Sunday 12th April, saw the very successful 2nd day of the EXPO being held the International Auditorium in Torrevieja, again it was a major success for the branch and the Royal British Legion welfare team, there was lots of interest shown at both tables we also had promises of joining the RBL and becoming Members, even people from other exhibits came over for information, as always we received welcomed donations from the public totalling 95.23 euro. I would like to thank Neil & Kevin Reardon from "The Leader" news paper, for their support towards the RBL, and making the event a very special and successful occasion.
Pictured - Mark Benton & Julie Benton, Bob Smith & Geoff Thomas
Billie Graham-Thomas Spains District Welfare Coordinator & Carl Graham-Thomas Spain District North Vice Chairman
Day 1 - EXPO TORREVIEJA - 11th April 2026
(Pictured Kevin & Stella Johnson, Louise Innes & Jill Morris)
Expo Torrevieja is one of the most popular lifestyle events on the southern Costa Blanca, taking place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April at the Torrevieja International Auditorium.
Now firmly established as a highlight on the local calendar, this two-day exhibition promises to be a lively showcase of everything that makes the area such a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. With free admission and parking, organizers expect around 10,000 visitors over the weekend.
More than 180 exhibitors will be participating, offering a wide mix of products, services, and ideas. Visitors can browse the stands of real estate specialists, legal and financial advisors, health and wellness providers, mobility experts, home renovation companies, technology providers, artisans, and lifestyle businesses. So, whether you're looking for practical information, new inspiration, or simply a pleasant day out, there will be plenty to see.
One of the most popular attractions at the exhibition is the Clubs and Associations Zone, which is expected to be bigger than ever this year. This area highlights the rich community life of Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, and the entire Vega Baja region, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about local social groups, sports clubs, fan organizations, and volunteer opportunities. For many, especially newcomers, it's an ideal way to make new connections and discover what the area has to offer.
Charitable and community organizations will also be strongly represented, continuing the event's long tradition of supporting good causes and recognizing the valuable work carried out throughout the Costa Blanca.
Entertainment will liven up the atmosphere throughout the weekend, particularly on Saturday, when local artists, choirs, and community groups will help bring the event to life. Music, cultural exhibits, and live performances will also reflect the diverse and international character of the area.
The exhibition will kick off for exhibitors with a welcome meet and greet on Friday evening in the main auditorium, featuring the Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, as the keynote speaker . Throughout the weekend, talks and live demonstrations will keep visitors engaged, while raffles and surprise prizes will add an extra touch of excitement, including the chance for one lucky couple to win a Mediterranean cruise.
Weather permitting, the ever-popular classic car, motorcycle and scooter exhibition will return on Sunday morning , adding even more interest to the event grounds.
With its doors open from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on both days, Expo Torrevieja is once again preparing to offer a memorable weekend full of ideas, entertainment and community spirit.
Thursday 23rd April - St Georges Day Lunch.
(Certification of appreciation the the Royal Oak Nikki & Caroline Connell )
Big thank you to Nicki of the Royal Oak Pub & Restaurant who hosted out branch fro Orihuela Costa & District on St Georges Day. We managed to raise over 115.86 euros for the Poppy Appeal, well done done or supporting us and a massive well done to our Social / Event Secretary Caroline Connell.
Branch Lunch - It is with huge appreciation a well organised a fantastic event that was held in the Royal Oak, The lunch was a huge success with some of our members turning up in Fancy Dress, the food was delicious and the function was a a success. a raffle was put on with kind donations & raised 115.86 Euros for the poppy appeal the event was well organised we were all made to feel welcome and even the general public donated putting the branch and the Poppy Appeal in the public eye what a wonderful day.. thank you Caroline.
It is with huge appreciation a well organised a fantastic event and the lunch was a huge success with some of our members turning up in Fancy Dress, the food was delicious and the function was a a success. a raffle was put on with kind donations & raised 115.86 Euros for the poppy appeal the event was well organised we were all made to feel welcome and even the general public donated putting the branch and the Poppy Appeal in the public eye what a wonderful day.
(Bob Smith our PAO as St George)
Thursday 16th April 2026
It is with huge appreciations & the kind donations from the Vega Baja Veterans social Group, whom held its monthly lunch today, 100 Euros were raised, in support of the Poppy Appeal. Massive thank you for your continued support.
(Pictured Kathy Bennett & Geoff Thomas in receipt of 100 Euros)
Tuesday 14th April 2026
"La Gunna Tavern" on Vistabella Golf in Entre Naranjos, raises 320.20 euros for the Poppy Appeal, During 8 horse races full of happy bets and against the odds, however, All donations made went straight to the Poppy Appeal a huge Thank you for these valuable funds and donations.
(Paul Nixon, Mark Benton & Geoff Thomas in receipt of 320.20 Euros)
Saturday 11th Apr 2026
the branch now have 2 Qualified Standard Bearers with Kind thanks to Dave Brettle Spain District Norths Parade Marshal, Robert Smith & Robert Smith being put through the paces by the Parade Marshal
10 May 2026
Certificate of appreciation awarded to "John Harper - From the Havana Bar"
Thank you for your support and hospitality, from all the members of the Orihuela Costa & District Branch.
Certificate of appreciation awarded to "John Harper " March 2026
March 6th 2026
The branch had the honour and privilege on hosting Hugh Ramsey from Northern Ireland, He was very kind enough to present the branch with the pendent showed below, we hope to forge a relationship between both branches.
THE POPPY APPEAL:
The annual Poppy Appeal raises around £50m worldwide and here in Spain District North we average around €120,000 each year and the total for all Overseas Branches averages €780,000.
We thank all those who helped reach these tremendous results for their generosity.
The money collected in Spain stays in Spain to support and assist Legion Beneficiaries living here.
WHO WE ARE & HELP IS AT HAND
We may be able to help with .......
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Assistance with home aids, mobility equipment and adaptations
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Immediate Needs Grants for food, repairs and essential bills
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Assistance with accessing Spanish Social Services
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Veterans’ Benefits
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Exportable UK Benefits
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Expatriation
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Blue Badge Application
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Hospital and Home Visits
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Telephone Buddy Calls
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Awareness Events
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Funeral Costs
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Bereavement Support
The Royal British Legion provides financial, social and emotional support to those who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces and their dependants.
The primary aim of the Legion is to support serving members of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army, Royal Air Force, Reservists, Veterans, and their families (Beneficiaries). In Spain, we continuously strive to improve the assistance and support provided for veterans and their dependants of all ages.
The Legion as a whole is the major voice for the Armed Forces Community throughout the year and spends around £1.3 m. each week helping Beneficiaries across the world.
We campaign and lobby on a wide range of issues, including mental health, housing and homelessness, employment, community and adult care, skills development, and debt advice.
The Legion’s District North Spain operates from the French border to Baza in Andalucía – an area larger than the UK.
Our Branches offer comradeship to members as well as social activities. Our network of hardworking Caseworkers and Branch Community Support members deliver a service to our Beneficiaries resident in the area. The enquiries we receive are many and varied.
The Legion also coordinates with the British Embassy and its Consulates and other local charity organisations to give the best possible service to our Beneficiaries.
As well as new Members, we are always looking for people to assist us in the Legion’s support to Beneficiaries. If you have time to spare you might consider volunteering as a Caseworkers, a Telephone Buddy or even a Hospital/Home visitor. We provide the necessary training and pay travel and other related expenses. For further information please contact the
District Community Support Coordinator.
SpainNorth.CommunitySupport@RBL. Community
Tel: +34 676 451 780 (Mon – Fri 9.00am to 2.00pm)
We are the UK’s largest Armed Forces
charity, with 180,000 members, 110,000 Volunteers and networking partners, Charities, helping us give support
And whenever it’s needed.
Founded in 1921, the Legion is not just about those who fought in the two World Wars of the last century, but also those involved in the many conflicts since 1945 and those still fighting for the freedom we enjoy today.
We are also the Nation’s custodian of Remembrance; we remember those who lost their lives on active service in all conflicts; from the beginning of the First World War right up to the present day. We also remember all those who have served and their families, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten.
We are responsible for the Two Minute Silence on Remembrance Sunday and 11th November, bringing Remembrance into the National calendar.
The primary aim of the Legion is to support serving members of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army, Royal Air Force, Reservists, Veterans, and their families. In Spain, we continuously strive to improve the assistance and support provided for veterans and their dependants of all ages.
The Legion as a whole is the major voice for the Armed Forces Community throughout the year and spends around £1.3 m. each week helping Beneficiaries across the world.
We campaign and lobby on a wide range of issues, including mental health, housing and homelessness, employment, community and adult care, skills development, and debt advice.
Here in Spain
The Legion’s District North Spain operates 15 independent branches from the French border to Baza in Andalucía – (an area larger than the UK).
Our Branches offer comradeship to members as well as social activities. Our network of hardworking Caseworkers and Branch Community Support members deliver a service to our Beneficiaries resident in the area. The enquiries we receive are many and varied.
The Legion also coordinates with the British Embassy and its Consulates and other local charity organisations to give the best possible service to our Beneficiaries.
As well as new Members, we are always looking for people to assist us in the Legion’s support to Beneficiaries. If you have time to spare you might consider volunteering as a Caseworkers, a Telephone Buddy or even a Hospital/Home visitor. We provide the necessary training and pay travel and other related expenses. For further information please contact the District Community Support Coordinator.
[email protected]
Tel: +34 676 451 780
(Mon – Fri 0900hrs to 1400hrs)
The Royal British Legion – Founded in 1921, it provides social and emotional support to those who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces and dependants.
• We have around 180,000 members in the UK and a further 8,000 overseas. We welcome men and women of all ages, whether or not they have an Armed Forces connection.
• District North Spain runs from the French border to Baza in Andalucía – an area larger than the size of the UK!
• The Annual Poppy Appeal raises around £50m worldwide and here in Spain District North we average around €120,000 each year to support our beneficiaries living in Spain.
• Nearly a quarter of those we help are below the age of 44: veteranscanbeasyoungas18yearsofage. Theyoungestperson we have assisted in Spain was only 6 days old, the daughter of a beneficiary.
• We campaign and lobby on a wide range of issues. Worldwide, we spend approximately £1.3m a week providing practical care, advice and support to our serving personnel, veterans of all ages, and families.
Contact Details:
Chairman SpainNorth.
[email protected]
(Welfare)
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tel: 676 451780 Mon to Fri 9am to 2pm
For additional information, please go to:
Spainish copy
The Royal British Legion – es una organización benéfica británica fundada en 1921, que asiste a miles de hombres y mujeres que han prestado servicio activo en las Fuerzas Armadas del Reino Unido y también ayudamos a sus familias.
The Royal British Legion – cuenta con sucursales tanto en el Reino Unido como en diversos lugares del mundo. La asociación recauda fondos para proporcionar asistencia social a sus beneficiarios por su Poppy Appeal.
The Poppy Appeal – la cantidad total recaudada cada año en todoelmundosuperalos50millonesdelibras. Eldinero recaudado en España se usa para ayudar a aquellos que han formando parte de las Fuerzas Armadas y que ahora residen en España, por lo que realizamos una importante labor e intentamos llegar a todos aquellos que lo necesitan.
The Royal British Legion – cuenta con acuerdos con el Consuladosbritánicosdelaregión. Asimismo,colaboramosy contamos con el apoyo de la Diputación de Alicante y los Servicios Sociales españoles.
Información de contacto:
Chairman:
[email protected]
Secretary:
[email protected]
Welfare
Community Support welfare Caseworker & Coordinator:
[email protected]
Tel: 676 451 780 – días laborables de 0900hrs - 1400hrs
Puede obtener más información en la página web:
www.britishlegion.org.uk/counties/spain-north
Asociación Benéfica No. 219279 (NIF N8261536J)
About Spain District North
