THE COLEFORD branch of the Royal British Legion held its annual awards even­ing at the end of a busy year. The awards acknowledge the efforts of volunteers during the Poppy Appeal which raised more than £8,000 in 2013.

Branch chair Paul McMahon said: "Our oldest member is 94 years of age and our youngest members are 14-17 years old, and are part of the Coleford Army Cadet Force

platoon which is affiliated to our branch.     

"We are in the process of affiliating Lakers School to our branch, and this helps us to engage with young people, and ensure they remain involved in everything we do as well as keeping our links with the past very much alive."

The branch is working with Coleford Town Council on a number of events to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I.

They will start with a concert at Coleford Baptist Church followed by a service at the Coleford clock tower.

A tea on the tump is planned for August 9 with the Forest of Dean Brass Band performing with young people.

The awards evening took place at Berry Hill rugby, where the branch meets on every second Tuesday.

There was a special award for PC Rob Dix who had led the Remembrance Day parade through Coleford for many years and Nina Buffin received her badge for 50 years service to the Legion.

The awards, which were presented by branch president Major General Peter Gilchrist.

Awards for five to 10 years' service: Marcus Bristow, Mark Carpenter, Derek Duncombe, Jeff Gwynne, Patrick Harding, Dot Kerley, Ken Kerley, Liz Lloyd-Nash, Catherine Mc­Mahon, Pat Short, and Bill Whiffin.

Badges for 20 years' service: Gwen Nash, Pam Powell, Bill Walby and Sheila Walby.

Badge for 50 years' service: Nina Buffin.

Special award: PC Rob Dix.