Frome’s RBL branch say ‘thank you’ to Poppy Appeal volunteers

FROME’S Royal British Legion branch raised £29,000 during last year’s Poppy Appeal and the  organisation has thanked the collection volunteers for their ‘fantastic efforts’.

A presentation evening was held this month to celebrate the volunteers who dedicate years of service to the Poppy Appeal. 

Richard Fry, Frome branch Poppy Appeal organiser said, “The 2019 Frome District appeal total has now nearly reached £29,000!  Many thanks to all who contributed and supported us.  Your donations will be put to very good use, helping former and current service personnel and their families in a variety of ways.

“We recognised the fantastic efforts made by our volunteers at a ‘thank you’ party, held at the Frome Cricket Club.  The cricket club has again helped our appeal this year and we are indebted to their continued support.   

“At the party, held on 17th January, a finger buffet was enjoyed by all, followed by a raffle and then award presentations.

“Awards are presented to volunteers on reaching milestones of five years and then at five-year intervals. In 1996 the Frome Branch Royal Navy Association (RNA) donated a silver cup to be presented to the person deemed to have made a significant contribution to the appeal.  

“I have to say as the person who decided, it was without doubt the hardest part of being the area Poppy Appeal organiser.  This was because so many work so hard in different ways, and I wished I could have nominated them all for the trophy. 

“However, after much deliberation, the award was presented by Mr Alan Sandall, the current President of Frome RNA, to a husband and wife for the first time, David and Victoria Turner.

“The final presentation of the evening was to the outgoing Poppy Appeal organiser, Mrs Maggy Daniel who completed eight years of sterling service.  The committee presented her with a memento in recognition of all the hard work and dedication she has given to our appeal.

“Organising for the 2020 appeal has already started.  If you would like to know more and think you may be able to find time to help, even if it’s just for an hour or so, then please call  07899 668433 or contact the branch secretary on frome.secretary@rbl. community.”

Pictured L to R: RNA president Alan Sandall with Blanche Farley, Richard Fry (PAO), Victoria Turner, Maggy Daniell, David Turner.