The Frome Branch Royal British Legion AGM was held in November, when some 20 members and friends attended the Frome Rugby Club to hear a review of the past year and vote in a new committee.
They report, “Guest of Honour, Mr Phil Davies RBL Membership Council Representative for Somerset and Wiltshire, was welcomed before outgoing President Fr Neil Maxted read an address that included his pride in the role where he had been able to advance connections and commemorations. He ended by espousing one of the Legion’s purposes to pass on the torch of Remembrance to the next generation.
“Outgoing chairman of the past seven years, Jane Norris, thanked everyone by name for their contribution, especially Richard Aspray at the end of his first year as secretary. On his watch, a RBL branch leaflet publishing branch community support has been produced and widely distributed, including to the Health Connections at the Frome Medical Practice. Contact for Buddie, local welfare and support, can be accessed through emailing frome.secretary@rbl.community.
“She reviewed her highlights – and low lights, of the past seven years and felt confident that the new committee would continue the good name of the Legion which was approaching its 100th year in 2021.
Branch secretary, Richard Aspray, reported on progress with contacts that included a broadcast with Frome FM earlier in the year. He and the chairman then proposed a change in byelaws to make the branch more accessible. Outgoing treasurer, Peter John, was thanked most gratefully for ensuring the finances were sound.
“Before the new committee was elected, Fr Neil Maxted paid tribute to Jane Norris’ hard work and dedication in maintaining the integrity of branch from difficult times in 2012, through the four years of the Great War centenary commemorations, to establishing links with many organisations. For this she had received awards that included the Mayor’s Civic Award for Services to Remembrance in 2017, the County Chairman’s Certificate of Appreciation in 2018 and the Frome Branch Royal Naval Association Cup for Outstanding Service to the Poppy Appeal in 2018. Jane received a beautiful bunch of flowers and an engraved RBL plaque, which she said she would treasure.
“The new committee was then elected; Nigel Moore, incoming chairman, Roger Evans, treasurer and others to support them on committee. A brief address was given by Nigel before he handed over to the guest of honour, Phil Davies who outlined the future of the RBL.
“The branch meets again on Wednesday, 8th January at 1930 at the Frome Rugby Club, and would welcome new members. A military background is not essential, so for more information please contact Richard Aspray on frome.secretary@rbl.community
