Local Royal British Legion Holds Service to Dedicate New Standard

A service of dedication for the new branch Standard of the Royal British Legion in Hailsham was held on Saturday [19 February], an event attended by the Town Mayor, local councillors, veterans and branch representatives.

The ceremony, held at Hailsham Parish Church, saw the Royal British Legion Hailsham & District Branch’s previous standard laid up, before the new Legion Standard was dedicated, so that it symbolises the principles and objectives of the branch in supporting serving personnel of the armed forces, veterans and their families.

Town Mayor Councillor Paul Holbrook, who attended the ceremony alongside other town council members commented: “The Standard is a constant reminder – a symbolic one – to members of the Legion’s principles and the Hailsham & District Branch is proud and honoured to have a new standard.”

“The Royal British Legion as a whole is an outstanding organisation and, as it now is, exists primarily to further the welfare of service and ex-service personnel and their families. The various services and ceremonial events held by the Legion are always well attended in Hailsham and provide an opportunity for us to reflect and remember the sacrifices made both in the past and in current conflicts.”

“It is important that as a community we continue to remember those who lost their lives for their country and support our local Royal British Legion branch in everything that they do.”

“It is a privilege to have been invited to last weekend’s event and, equally, for the Town Council to be able to support the Hailsham & District branch in organising the annual Remembrance Day commemoration events. I would encourage as many people as possible to continue to attend them, pay their respects and support the branch at all times.”

If you would like further information on the Standard or wish to be part of the Hailsham & District branch’s activities, please contact the branch secretary, Steve Leonard by email: swl019550@gmail.com.