ALMOST 80 years of existence came to an end last week with the formal closure of the women's section of the Tavistock branch of the Royal British Legion.

Members gathered in the Tavy Club for the final meeting, led by chairman Lilian Stephens and president Jenny Summerfield.

They were joined by RBL county officials Jean Bowden from Appledore and Theresa Pinizzi from Torquay as the section was formally closed down.

It was an occasion that did not pass without some emotion to members who remembered the many good times over the years.

The section, which first met on September 22, 1932 was started to provide financial, social and emotional support to those who serve, or had served, in the Armed Forces, and their dependants.

During the second world war the women knitted and sewed for the troops on the frontline. Over the years the section has raised many thousands of pounds for RBL charities through cheese and wine evenings, skittles matches, bingo and other activities.

The women were always out 'in force' on the streets of Tavistock to collect for the annual Poppy Appeal for Remembrance Day on November 11.

It also acted as a social club and a mutual support for wives who were left on their own while their husbands were away serving in the Armed Forces.

Mary McLoughlin, the section's vice-chairman, told the Times: 'It is a bit sad to close down after 80 years.

'The problem was falling membership. Two years ago we had 245 lady members, last year 126 and this year we were down to 24. Times have changed and people, especially those in their 20s and 30s, have other things to do and the numbers today have just dwindled.'

Lilian Stephens, who has been a member for more than 20 years, added: 'I'm very sad that it has closed down. We took pride in laying a poppy wreath and lowering our standard at the Remembrance Day parade in Tavistock.'

The women's section is hoping that, with the church's permission, their standard will now find a permanent home at St Eustachius Church.

It may be — in words that will be familiar to Royal British Legion members — 'the going down of the sun' for the women's section of the Tavistock branch of the Royal British Legion but, despite the closure the memories and friendships forged over the years will continue.