MEMBERS of the Bromsgrove Royal British Legion (RBL) and organisations which have backed the Poppy Appeal met for an awards evening.
The events are organised every five years to recognise people’s dedication to the Poppy Appeal and the RBL.
Present on Monday at the Bromsgrove Conservative and Unionist Club was David Herbert, the vice chairman of the Worcestershire RBL branch, Bromsgrove District Council chairman, Coun Sam Evans, and representatives from Bromsgrove RBL.
Certificates of appreciation were presented to several organisations for supporting the Poppy Appeal, inlcuding Charford First School, Bromsgrove School, Morrisons and the Bromsgrove Standard.
In the long service awards, Poppy Appeal collector Patrick Crumb, standard bearer Dan Charlton, supporter Caroline Khan and bugler Ray Khan were recognised for ten years service.
Highlighted for 15 years were Bromsgrove RBL president Barry Troth, welfare officer Kate Harris-Reynolds and collector Aaliyah Harris.
And long-serving Poppy Appeal collectors Paul and Sue Vaughan – a husband and wife duo – received their 25-year awards.
Picture by Tristan Harris. Copyright Bullivant Media Group Ltd.
Bromsgrove RBL chairman Jeff Evans said: “I always get emotional on these occasions as we recognise the people who are out on the streets making a real difference.
“Bromsgrove is a small branch but we raise around £20,000 each year for the Poppy Appeal.”
Coun Evans added: “It is always great to see so many large crowds at the annual Remembrance parades but Remembrance is so much more than that and happens all year round.”
He praised the work the RBL did to help veterans and said: “I am honoured and grateful to be here tonight.”
Mr Herbert said everyone did an amazing job, particularly the cadets, but added the RBL was shrinking and more members were needed.
Claire Brookes, Worcestershire’s Poppy Appeal manager, praised everyone who helped with the annual drive, including Chadsgrove College, the collectors, cadet forces and other associations.
“When veterans’ lives fall apart, the Royal British Legion is there to help them rebuild them. Wearing a poppy shows everyone you care.”
