THERE was a good attendance at the 2009 AGM, where the 2008 Minutes were read and approved.

Mr George Evans, the retiring branch chairman, thanked the members for their support over the years, saying that people like them were the backbone of the Legion. Then Mr Adolf Kardynal, the secretary, who also had served many years in his post said that, due to family commitments, he would be handing over the reins to a new secretary.

The Poppy Appeal organiser, Mrs Ann Evans, gave her annual report, saying that 2008 was up £352.50 on 2007, making a total collection of £8,575.08. She gave thanks to all those who had helped to achieve this sum, standing out in the cold in the town and outside supermarkets. The help of Rodborough Tabernacle each year, standing outside Waitrose, Nicky Childs and her mum, Jane Quilliam and Frances Russell, plus Bob who delivered poppies to where they did most good. The Rotarians, family members of Legion and, of course, Legion members as well. Of course, thanks must be given to all those superstores who allow us to collect.

Election of officers and other appointments - The following were elected: Branch President - Mr G. Evans * Branch Chairman - Mr R Bishop Branch Secretary - Mrs N Rodman Branch Treasurer - Mr D Bruce Poppy Appeal Organiser - Mrs A Evans Publicity Officer - Mrs N Bishop * A letter of resignation from Mr Packer was read out.

The chairman discussed the organising of the Remembrance Sunday Parade at Park Gardens (8/11/09) which the branch, this year, was financing with the help of the District and Town Councils, for which we are grateful. All three Cadet organisations will be taking an active part. The Exhortation will be said by the president and the Kohima Epitaph will be given by a Cadet sergeant major. Music, as before, will be heard before and after the service. For the first time poppies will be on sale at this event.

November 11 will be remembered at 11am outside of the Subscription Rooms, organised by Churches Together. Please stop and remember the significance of this date.

Mrs Rodman still has regimental plaques which she would like to see go to those with service connections. Any left will be given a home at the Conservative Club, London Road, November's meeting, on the 11th, will commence at 12 noon so that members can ‘Stand To’ outside the Subscription Rooms at 11am.

Finally, the Christmas lunch will be held in the Conservative Club on December 16, 2009 - See you there.