Annual General Meeting - 2025
As we are all aware, at the AGM 2025 two long standing Branch Officers stood down from their roles.
Chair - Tony Matthews MBE and Secretary - Margaret Bullock, have given outstanding service to the Branch and the community we support over many, many years. They live the values of the Royal British Legion, positively promote the Branch at home and away and have shown dedication and professionalism when supporting those that serve, those that have served and their families.
As a sign of gratitude, Tony and Margaret were presented with gifts from the Branch and senior management of the National Memorial Arboretum. A clear demonstration of the important role the Branch plays in supporting the NMA's mission.
Both Tony and Margaret will continue to Volunteer their time with both the NMA and RBL Engagement and Support Desk.
Tony has also been invited to take on the role of President of the Branch. This position has been vacant since the sad loss of the previous incumbent, Andrew Hodson. An official announcement will be made once the paperwork has been completed.
By Darren Cockcroft
Sunday 12th October 2025 the Staffordshire County Standard Bearer Competition also hosted the competition for National Branches District. This turned out to be another triumph for NMA Standard Bearer Beth Slade, who took the title against strong opposition.
By Darren Cockcroft
Sunday 16th February 2025 saw the regional standard bearer competition in Cobham. Huge thanks to Steve as our newly installed District Parade Marshal and his band of National Branches District (NBD) ceremonial helpers, all of whom received several positive comments from the competitors and their supporters, we couldn't have done it without them.
The competition was once again won by Beth Slade of the National Memorial Arboretum Branch, so NBD will be represented at the National SB competition at National Conference in Harrogate in May, and we wish Beth the best of luck as she strives to retain her charge of the National Standard 🤞
By Jane Cosgrove, Chair National Branches District
Branch Chairman Tony Matthews has been awarded the MBE as part of the King's Birthday Honours 2024.
"He has been Chairman of the RBL NMA Branch since 2015. Under his trusted leadership the Branch has seen Membership double......"
"He has overseen the affiliation of 40 youth groups making association with the Branch more meaningful through presentations and the provision of Standard Bearer training."
"....... has been a committed Volunteer at the National Memorial Arboretum for 16 years, and for the Royal British Legion at their NMA Engagement point, one of its first volunteers, for 8 years........ and is an incredibly passionate ambassador for both charities."
"He has used his own experiences as a veteran to build bridges with others and spark conversations that have driven action in their lives."
By Darren Cockcroft
Beth Slade has been carrying a Legion Standard since 2000.
As testament to her dedication Beth has won the National Standard Bearer Competition at the 2024 Membership Conference and is now The Royal British Legion National Standard Bearer!
By Darren Cockcroft
NMA Branch member and Staffordshire County Chairman, Neil James, has recently been awarded the RBL Gold Badge, this is a National Award signed off by the National Chairman.
The Award was presented at Staffordshire County Conference by National President Sir Clive Johnstone.
Photo is of Sir Clive ( left ) and Neil ( right ).
By Neil James
