NEWS
Shortly before Christmas 2023, in keeping with our Chairman, Richard Allen’s aim to continue implementing the RBL’s national youth involvement policy within the Amesbury Branch, he presented the official Certificate of Affiliation to the 1st Boscombe Down Scouts which was accepted by Nick Dossitt, the Scout Leader. Richard was accompanied by Flight Sergeant Huw Griffiths, the Branch Vice Chairman and BCS (Welfare) Officer. Between them, they presented a number of individual awards to those young people who had earned various Scouting badges. There was a palpable sense of pride and achievement amongst all present.
The Branch looks forward to working together with the 1st Boscombe Down Scouts, as well as the 1011(Amesbury) Air Cadets and the 1st Amesbury Girls’ Brigade who have already been presented with their Affiliation Certificates. The Army Cadet Force Bulford Detachment will be receiving their certificate as soon as a date can be arranged. Amesbury Branch has for many years appreciated the valuable contribution made by the Air Cadets and it is hoped that similar co-operation will result from these new official youth links.
Farewell to Glyn Jones
Amesbury Branch of the Royal British Legion organised a presentation meal at a local restaurant for Glyn Jones prior to his leaving the town for his homeland, Wales. Glyn has been a stalwart of the Branch for many years, first serving as Poppy Co-ordinator and Parade Marshal but more recently as Treasurer and Standard Bearer. The event was an opportunity for a group of his fellow members to enjoy an excellent meal in his company and to present him with an engraved decanter set, Welsh whisky and pewter decanter label. Glyn had been insistent that he wanted 'to slip away unnoticed' but instead his friends in the Branch gave him an evening he said he would always remember.
As well as being a long standing member of the RBL Glyn is well known in the town as the violin maker and restorer so it was fitting that the cake made in his honour by Barbara Bebbington should feature that instrument as decoration. It also brought the evening to a tasty conclusion.
Skittles evening
On Friday, 9th February Amesbury Branch of the RBL challenged the Household Cavalry from Bulford to a skittles match. The most enjoyable evening was full of friendly rivalry and a great atmosphere, helping to forge a tighter link with our neighbouring military friends.
Chairman's Welcome
Following Glyn Jones stepping down from the posts of Branch Treasurer and Standard Bearer, prior to his departure from Amesbury, the Branch Chairman welcomes Robert Yuill as the new Branch Treasurer. He also welcomes Ian Mitchell as the new Standard Bearer and Phil Gorman as his Deputy.
EVENTS
Dates for 2024 are as follows:
- Friday 9th February – Skittles match against Household Cavalry.
- Friday 23rd February - Branch meeting followed by talk given by Phil Monk.
- Friday, 22nd March - Social event
- Friday, 26th April - Branch meeting
- Friday, 31st May - Social event
- Friday, 28th June - Branch meeting
- Friday, 26th July - Social event
- Friday, 30th August - Branch meeting
- Friday, 20th September - Social event
- Friday, 18th October - Annual General Meeting
- TBA - Poppy Start Up Meeting.
- Sunday 10th November - Remembrance Sunday Parade.
- Sunday 10th November - Curry Lunch and Raffle.
- Armistice Day 11th November
- TBA - Poppy Donations count
- TBA - Poppy Appeal thank you party.
Any other dates will be added as and when decided
