In memory of Bryan Kingscote, former Branch Chairman and former Branch President of the Royal Wootton Bassett British Legion branch.

Bryan sadly died on 5th July 2022 with his family at his side. A service of remembrance was held at St Bartholomew’s Church, well attended by family, friends, a Legion Guard of Honour and Standard Bearer.

Bryan was born on the 29^th August 1935 in the village of Charfield, Gloucester. One of five siblings. He earned his way to attend Katharine Lady Berkeley's Grammar School.

Bryan's commitment to the RAF manifested at an early age when, at the age of 16, he was instrumental in the founding of the Charfield branch of the Air Cadets, allegedly so that he would not have to travel all the way to Chipping Sodbury. In his role as Branch Sergeant, he had his work cut out keeping his unruly brothers in line.

Bryan joined the RAF in January 1935 as an Administrative Apprentice. He became Air Quarter Master, stationed at RAF Lyneham in 1955 and Master Air Load Master in 1965. He proudly received the Queen's Warrant in 1969. Amongst many and varied responsibilities, he flew on the VIP Flight from Brize Norton flying with dignitaries such as Mrs Thatcher, Prince Charles and Lady Diana.

In a career spanning 39 years, he visited many countries around the world (at one time we counted five that he had not been to). After a family posting in Kenya (1962 – 1968) he settled in Wootton Bassett where he lived until his death.

Bryan was a devoted family man who was always there to support and encourage. He was married to Beryl in 1955. During a long and happy marriage, they had four children; Bridget, Andrew, Susan and Simon; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

After retirement from the RAF in August 1990,  Bryan worked as a postman in Purton. A job to which he showed the same dedication and duty of care to all the people on his round.

This selfless dedication to his duties and to others continued in his various roles in the British Legion. He was Chairman and subsequently President for many years. He was very active in the Poppy Appeal, a cause very close to his heart. His time as Chairman saw him closely involved in the organisation of the repatriations. Consequently, the Town was awarded the prefix Royal (the first town to have been given this honour in 100 years).

Bryan will be missed by his friends and family alike.

A life well spent, a legacy well left and in his own words,

‘I would love to do it all again!’