The Petersfield branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) could be in its last month as it fights to stay open.

Both the secretary and the treasurer positions need filling and if both are not filled, then the branch will be required to lay-up its standard as it is legally required to do so in accordance with RBL rules and regulations.

There are around 59 members at Petersfield RBL but more are needed to take part in the monthly meetings and involve themselves in other services apart from the Poppy Appeal.

“As the president, I would hate to think that the branch folded under my watch,” Club President David Lodrick told The Post.

“We have a presence throughout the town as it has been for over 100 years but we are in great danger of folding in January 2025.

“Members are urgently required, particularly younger ones, they don't have to be members of the forces, they could be anyone.”

While the gifting of the branded gazebo by the Town Council has helped raise the branch’s profile alongside attending community events, new ideas and activities to boost the branch’s profile can only be done if more people sign up.

The British Legion was formed on May 15, 1921, bringing together four national organisations of ex-servicemen that had established themselves after World War I.

The main purpose of the Legion was to care for those who had suffered as a result of service in the Armed Forces during the war, whether through their own service or that of a husband, father or son.

The Petersfield branch was formed two months later on July 19 and it has continued to flourish and contribute significant sums to the annual Poppy Appeal through member efforts and residents.

Last year, the branch raised around £33,500 for the annual collection, up from the £29,808.90 that was raised in 2023.

Mr Lodrick added: “We’ve raised way over £30,000 so we've been punching way above our weight!”

In 2023, the branch said farewell to its now former chairman Clive Lewis after 16 years in the position. Mr Lewis recalled how a meeting with a fellow veteran on a windswept Petersfield station platform led to his first RBL meeting.

He said: “If we’re talking about achievements, then I think moving from one man, one dog and a band on Remembrance Sunday to the event we have now is probably the biggest. We may not be the biggest RBL club, but we’re the best.”

Keep an eye out for the RBL on Friday, January 23 when the East Hampshire Veterans Festival comes to the Festival Hall. The free event will run from 10am to 3pm, with a variety of national and local organisations, charities and local groups related to the Armed Forces.

The branch currently meets monthly at the Red Lion in Petersfield, every 2nd Wednesday at 7.30pm.

If you want to find out more visit, https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/. Alternatively, contact Mr Lodrick at [email protected] or on 07842 755196.