THE Royal British Legion (RBL) set up a stall to raise money and awareness for the charity during Weymouth's Armed Forces Weekend celebrations.

The event was cancelled last year due to coronavirus restrictions at the time, and the town council said it was determined to put on a show this year - even though a full-scale event could not be held.

On the Saturday (June 19), charity stalls were set up along The Esplanade for Armed Forces Weekend - and the RBL branch in Weymouth had set up it's own stall to represent the charity at the event.

Chair of the Weymouth branch Naomi Turner said: "Weekend's like this are very important for the Legion, it's not just about the fundraising, it's about being face-to-face with people. Through these events we're able to give people advice and leaflets which can give them vital information, if somebody needs any help it's easier to give it them straight away like this.

"Our stand has been popular so far today and we seem to be having a lot of interest from people passing by."

Ian Jarvis, Dorset County Chairman, the Royal British Legion said: “The Royal British Legion’s network of branches in Dorset play a vital role across the county providing comradeship and welfare support for the Armed Forces community in the county.

“The branches in Dorset are key focal points for social and Remembrance activity as the county pays tribute to those who have served and sacrificed on our behalf. In addition, local branches raise vital money to ensure that the Royal British Legion can continue its work providing life-long support to serving personnel, veterans and their families. We are grateful for the support of everyone who is associated with their local RBL branch."

The Weymouth RBL branch was founded 100 years ago and has been able to help the Armed Forces community in the town with support from local volunteers.

The RBL is very active across the county with approximately 8,400 Legion members, with the RBL branch in Weymouth being just one of 30 branches, which are supported by 15 RBL Clubs.

The charity was formed in the aftermath of the First World War to fight for the rights of those who had given so much and come back to so little. Today, the RBL continues to provide life-changing help and support to the Armed Forces community and challenge injustices on their behalf.

We at the Dorset Echo are appealing to our readers to donate to the RBL by visiting dorsetecho.co.uk/RBL or sending a cheque payable to Dorset Echo in an envelope clearly marked ‘RBL donation’ and mailing it to Dorset Echo, Fleet House, Hampshire Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 9XD.