Ashton branch of RBL celebrate centenary

Thursday, 16 December 2021 15:06

A special service was held at St Michael's Church in Ashton as part of the Royal British Legion centenary anniversary celebrations this year and the Ashton branch's 100th birthday.

The service last Sunday (12 December) was led by The Rev David Warner, vicar at St George’s and St John’s in Mossley.

It was attended by a cross section of the community, including members of the armed services, veterans, members of the RBL, schoolchildren and civic dignitaries including the Civic Mayor of Tameside, Cllr Jan Cooper and her consort Mr Dennis Fitzpatrick.

The Rev Warner said: “It was a great privilege to lead the service, and a joy to see so many gathered to give thanks for the past 100 years of service and remembrance.

“It was really special to have so many youngsters from the Parochial School with us, as well as civic dignitaries and supporters. I was especially pleased to bless a 100 year pennant, added to the Ashton branch standard, as a sign for all of their astonishing service. Here’s to the next 100 years.”

Scott Pringle, chairman of the Ashton branch of the Royal British Legion, added: “As we look to the future, the RBL remains dedicated in its mission to ensure the welfare of our veterans is cared for and adaptation to the changing needs of our Armed Forces community remains at the heart of everything that we do.

“Building on a century of work the RBL will make sure that all who have served and sacrificed on our behalf receive the help and support they need when and where they need it, to allow them to create safe futures for themselves and their families.”

He explained that celebrations to mark the anniversary year had begun back in May.

“On the 15th May earlier this year the RBL marked its centenary with a special event at the Cenotaph in London, recreating the moment 100 years ago when the British Legion was formed,” he said.

“At the same time RBL branches around the country and indeed the world carried out the same moment by laying wreaths at their local cenotaphs, as was the case in Ashton. That day the RBL also held its annual conference, but it was held online due to the virus concerns.”

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Outlining the history behind the service, he said in the early years of the new British Legion, founder and President Earl Haig worked tirelessly championing the needs of the Armed Forces, launching the Poppy Appeal in 1921 and helping to shape the modern-day Remembrance. He also worked hard at grass-roots level, touring the country with Lady Haig, making speeches, visiting branches, opening bowling greens and hospital wards.

“Our members, volunteers and staff have been at the heart of the Royal British Legion since the formation in 1921,” added Scott.

“In our centenary year we have been celebrating the people who have not only contributed to our history, but to their communities. From silk poppies to personal testimonies of support, we’ve told our stories that celebrate 100 years of honouring and supporting those who protect our way of life.

“By bringing to life their personal stories, memories and charitable work, we have been telling the story of the last 100 years.

“Our branch here in Ashton launched a TIKTOK and Facebook social media campaign called ‘100 Heroes Remembered’ and we have uploaded videos to remember a military veteran within our area from any military operation since World War One to the present day.

“As well as remembering those that paid the ultimate sacrifice, we have included veterans who are still with us today. The 100 Heroes Remembered has led up to our branch’s 100th year on Sunday. In church the 100th hero was remembered as we celebrate 100 years of the branch and look forward to a great future.

“The involvement from schools, companies, the council and local people in everything we strive to achieve, for remembrance, to supporting the Poppy Appeal is outstanding. Everyone from our community is thanked for what they have done and achieved.”

Images by Nigel Wood

Ashton branch of RBL celebrate centenary

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