Royal British Legion, Sedbergh & District Branch

Minutes for the monthly meeting held in the White Hart Club
on Thursday 12th December 2024

The meeting started at 7.15 pm with the Exhortation and Silent Tribute led by the Chairman.

Those present:

David Parratt, Tony Reed Screen, Nigel Whiting, Myles Ripley, Keith Birbeck

Apologies:

Martin Gray, Rupert Follett, Rose Pease, John Pease

Minutes:

The Minutes of the Committee Meeting held on 14th November 2024, having been circulated
by email, were approved as a true record.

Branch Community Support:

•  David again raised the issue of the proposed monthly reporting by the qualified BCS
  personnel. It was agreed that monthly reporting was totally unnecessary and this
  requirement has been challenged by David as the existing consolidated quarterly report
  is more than sufficient for this purpose. It is understood that the MEO agrees.
•  David has maintained the visits to the Sedbergh veteran in his new bungalow. Tony
  reported that he is well, happy and growing in confidence in his new accommodation.
  The new estate community is a helpful and supportive environment. Keith has tried to
  visit on two occasions but each time he wasn’t home. It seems that he is usually there
  between 11.30 and 12.00.
•  Rawthey Project: It was reported that the Branch has had no communication from them
  for some time. Post Meeting note: It has subsequently been confirmed that a walk is
  going ahead on Christmas morning with veterans from Tom Harrison House, a military
  charity in Liverpool. Keith will accompany them if he is available. The Dalesman will be
  providing Christmas lunch and accommodation as they have done in previous years.
• Treasurer’s Report:
  Martin reported that the balance at 1st December was £1,182.85.
• Social Events:
  Three coffee mornings are planned for next year; May/June (Branch funds), August
  (Rawthey Project) and 29th October (Poppy Appeal). Dates will be confirmed at the January
  meeting.
• Poppy Appeal:The final total raised was £14,063 – a new record! It was noted that it was impressive given the loss of the first day due to a Roadchef double booking and the closure of the M6 on
  another.
• AOB:  It was noted the RBL organisation-wide strategy document will be launched at the
  annual conference in May 2025. 
• A 'thank you' card has been received from the residents of Lister House, a care home
  for the Armed Forces community in Ripon, thanking us for our donations and
  continued support. 
• New members - DP stressed the need to continue to strive to recruit new members
  to the branch in the New Year and beyond.
  
  There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Kohima Epitaph at 7.35 pm.
  The next meeting will be on Thursday 9th January at 7.15 pm. in the White Hart Social
  Club.