AT ITS recent Annual General Meeting, the Ross-on-Wye and District Branch of the Royal British Legion appointed Cecilia Griffin as its new chairman, succeeding Paul Cummings, who stepped down after almost two successful years leading the Branch.

Ms Griffin brings extensive military and defence experience to her new role. She served for 16 years in the Royal Air Force as an armaments officer, undertaking operational, technical, safety and policy appointments, including responsibilities for aircraft armament systems, explosive safety, accident investigation and recovery involving hazardous material.

Following her RAF career, she spent a further 15 years working with the Ministry of Defence and defence contractors, supporting the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet and the Defence Nuclear Safety Regulator.

Having served as branch vice-chairman for the past 20 months, Cecilia is looking forward to building on the achievements of her predecessor and continuing the Branch’s important work within the local community.

Welcoming new members to both the committee and the wider branch, she encouraged everyone to contribute their ideas, experience and enthusiasm, emphasising that the strength of the Royal British Legion lies in the commitment and involvement of its members. Her immediate priority will be the forthcoming Remembrance commemorations and the annual Poppy Appeal.

The 2026 Poppy Appeal will be launched at Morrisons in Ross at 10am on Thursday, October 22, followed by the opening of the Garden of Remembrance in Broad Street at 11am on Saturday 24 October.

Remembrance crosses will be available from the Poppy Appeal table at Morrisons and from Little Saplings in New Street.

The Branch warmly encourages residents to support this year’s Poppy Appeal and participate in the town’s Remembrance commemorations, honouring all those who have served and sacrificed.

A full programme of Remembrance events and services is displayed on the Branch noticeboard on the side wall of the Dogs Trust shop.