The Branch Chairman, Mr Ian Cumming addressed the members present, giving the latest fatality figures from Afghanistan – now in excess of lives lost in the Falklands War. He went on to say that figures, which are not recorded accurately into the public domain, of those service men and women involved in the conflict who sustain appalling injuries, equate to between four and five times the number of deaths. These are the service personnel who will more than likely seek help from The Royal British Legion at some time in the future.

He paid tribute to Dennis Parsons, a member who had passed away in December. He went on to say that one of our members, Mr David Wheadon had sustained a serious fall at his home on Sunday 31st January. The news of Dave‟s recovery had been encouraging, as Dave had regained consciousness on Sunday 7th February. Mr Cumming also expressed condolences of the members to Mr Terry Rowles whose mother had died earlier in the day.

Mr Geoffrey Berry (Branch Treasurer) gave his financial report, saying that the Annual Branch Accounts had been returned to Head Office. These had been audited by Mr T. Lane. Mr Lane had provided a letter to the branch, for members‟ approval, saying that he would be prepared to act as Honorary Auditor to the Branch. The proposal was supported unanimously.

The Branch Secretary, Mrs Hilary Cumming reported that she had obtained quotations for the refurbishment of the Branch Standard – the decision was taken unanimously to proceed.

A quotation to restore the War Memorial in Buckland St Mary churchyard had been received and, so far, the Branch Secretary had received £250 from Somerset County Council, actioned by our County Councillor, Mrs Jenny Kenton. An approach to the Parish Council had been made and this would be on their March Agenda. The total cost of restoration would be in excess of £900 and other monies would have to be sourced through grants or fundraising.

A letter had been sent from the Branch to the members of the Wootton Basset Branch, RBL thanking them for their diligent presence in their town, as each fatality from Afghanistan is returned to R.A.F Lyneham and passes through Wootton Basset before onward travel to the home of the soldier killed in action.