Legion plea staves off closure
The Broseley branch of the Royal British Legion, one of the oldest in Shropshire, has staved off closure for now but is still "technically in crisis", its chairman said.
A plea for new members brought in enough people to organise the Armistice Day commemoration next month.
Chairman Henry Pritchard said: "One or two of our older members turned up at the last meeting and we are having a few former members rejoining, so at least we were able to organise the memorial service.
"It is looking a little rosier than it did, we are still working at it and still asking around for more members.
"It's still technically in crisis but the crunch time will be the annual meeting in December."
The branch was formed in 1921 and Mr Pritchard said it was still possible it could fold if few people turned up to the AGM.
"It was one of the first branches to be formed in Shropshire," he said. "At the moment we have about 40 members but the problem is people are not coming to the meetings."
He said thousands of pounds were raised each year through the British Legion's Poppy Appeal and it would be a pity if that could not continue.
He said thanks to the recent plea for help in the Shropshire Star, there were enough people to organise this year's Poppy Appeal.
Mr Pritchard said: "Over the last two years alone this has raised £7,300 which is a considerable sum for a place the size of Broseley."
The legion is open to anyone and is not solely for ex-servicemen.
Anyone interested can go along to meetings held on the second Wednesday of every month at Broseley Social Club at 8.30pm or phone Mr Pritchard on (01952) 882186.