Westbury RBL to run for another year – but members still needed

THE Westbury Royal British Legion (RBL) will continue to run this year despite fears that a lack of members and volunteers would force its closure. 

The Wiltshire RBL Poppy Appeal manager, Peter Saunders, says that they are still looking for new members and volunteers to secure the long-term future of the Westbury branch.

“We would encourage anyone who is interested in volunteering for the Poppy Appeal in Westbury to get in touch with us to find out more,” he said. “Volunteers are crucial to delivering the Appeal in the town. You will be fully supported in the role, including receiving training before the Poppy Appeal.”

The Royal British Legion charity, which organises the Poppy Appeal every October and November, relies on more than 3,500 dedicated volunteers to help deliver the appeal across the UK each year. The appeal raises vital funds to help veterans, current serving personnel, and their families, who have served and sacrificed for their country.

Volunteers help to distribute poppies within their communities – nearly 35 million are sold across the UK each year – and can take on a range of roles including Poppy Appeal Organisers who lead a team of dedicated volunteers in their area.

The charity says all volunteers will be fully trained and the role can help people develop skills such as public speaking and building confidence, and will allow you to make new friends, and be part of a national appeal, which is giving back to the many people in the armed forces who have served and sacrificed.

Dave Calder, the local Poppy Appeal organiser, can also be reached on 07771 071213. Alternatively you can visit rbl.org.uk/poppyappealvolunteer or contact the Royal British Legion dedicated helpline on 0345 845 1945

To become a member of the Westbury RBL visit https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/things-to-do/membership/become-a-member or email membershipservices@britishlegion.org.uk