Aldwick British Legion hopes renewed interest in armed forces will boost numbers

The fortunes of the Hewarts Lane venue have declined in recent years because of dwindling support.

But a recruitment drive has started to pay off. Membership has stabilised at about 200.

Club chairman Reg Anning said people concerned for the soldiers fighting in Afghanistan could make a real difference by joining the legion.

"It's all about helping our lads and lasses and the way to do it is through the club," he stated.

"If there was no club, it would not be the same for the Aldwick Royal British Legion branch or a women's section.

"They would have to meet in someone's front room. There would be nowhere for them to hold events to raise money for our armed forces."

Typical of the fundraisers are Poppy Appeal events each November. The club is hosting another of its successful race nights at 8pm on August 28 followed by a family fun day with games, tombola and a barbecue on August 29.

Regular attractions include live entertainment on Saturdays, bingo on Sundays and a quiz or skittles on alternate Fridays.

The Aldwick club on Hewarts Lane in Rose Green is believed to have existed since the early years of the 20th century. The women's section based there dates back to 1937. Former lorry driver Mr Anning, 61, of Westminster Drive, said: "People think you have to have been a member of the armed forces to join the legion. But that's not true. Anyone can join us.

"We want to raise the profile of the club back to where it was. Members have passed away and there has been no one to replace them.

"We want to attract people in their 50s and 60s to join and provide some new blood to help us with ideas."

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