OKEHAMPTON Royal British Legion branch will this weekend receive a county award marking its continuing success. At the annual meeting of the Royal British Legion of Devon in Honiton this Saturday, Okehampton branch will be presented with the Cameron Webb Cup for efficiency. This award qualifies the branch for nomination for a national award. During the last three years, the branch has consistently increased its membership, reversing the national trend, maintained a steady improvement in the Poppy Appeal collection and kept the legion?s work in the public eye in Okehampton. This year?s Poppy Appeal has already reached more than £7,500, an amount likely to exceed last year?s final total of £8,820. Mrs Marilyn Poat and her team of dedicated helpers have achieved outstanding results over the past six years. She hands over her duties to Mrs Val Hoar this spring but will continue to give the Poppy Appeal organisation in Okehampton her much appreciated assistance and knowledge. Branch secretary Peter Williams said: ?The 60th anniversaries of D-Day in 2004 and VE/VJ Days in 2005 were two examples of how the legion has maintained a high public profile in this part of West Devon Borough.? He said the branch had also been most fortunate to have the youth element represented so magnificently by James Stacey, the section standard bearer. James, about to begin a career in the Royal Air Force, has represented the branch both at county level and in London on national occasions. He twice participated at the annual Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall and last year took part in the VE/VJ Days 60th anniversary rally along the Mall to Buckingham Palace. Mr Williams said the branch was keen to recruit more members. Membership is not restricted to former members of the Armed Forces. Anyone with an interest in helping former soldiers, sailors and airmen and women and their dependents in times of need is most welcome. Branch meetings are held the first Monday of each month in the branch social club in Station Road, starting at 7.30pm. These meetings are open to all members.
