Dear Editor,

In July, the Ross-on-Wye Branch of the Royal British Legion were honoured to be joined by Ivor and Jean at the Veteran’s Tea Party and we are very pleased to announce that two more Pensioners are coming to the Poppy Concert at John Kyrle School on Sunday, October 16th, starting at 2.30pm.

The original visit has revived the story of how the Chelsea Pensioners were evacuated to Ross during WW2 and sadly during this time, many died and are buried in St Mary’s Churchyard and St Bridget’s Churchyard at Bridstow, where there are Memorials to these brave men.

Since July, you will have read about another visit where two of their members visited Rudhall Manor.

Last week Mary (our Events Co-ordinator) and myself (the Secretary) visited Ross Court and gave a talk about the Chelsea Pensioners during WW2. It is planned that we will soon be visiting the local schools, telling them the story. The idea is to continue the link between our town and this great institution, which provides care for people who have dedicated their lives to their Country.

Each year, during the Remembrance Period, the Ross branch of the RBL hold a short service, remembering the Chelsea Pensioners and the Korean Veterans, and we lay wreaths at their respective memorials. This year we will be joined by the choir from Ashfield Park Primary School who will come along and sing for us. They make this a very special time and if you wish to take part in this please come along and join us on The Prospect at 11.45am on Thursday, November 10th - everyone is welcome.

Your readers are very welcome to come along and meet with our guests at the Poppy Concert. For more information, please call Margaret on 01989 566301. Tickets are available at Rossiter Books or River Music, alternatively you can pay on arrival.

Margaret Jones

Secretary

Ross Royal British Legion.