Ashby Museum's Ken Hillier gave a talk to the Ashby & District Branch of The Royal British Legion hold their AGM at The Ivanhoe Social Club on Tuesday.

The meeting was well attended by members who heard Mr Hillier talk about how the town was historically linked to and involved with military matters going back through the centuries.

He also provided related artefacts to those present, including a decommissioned mortar bomb from World War II, a military pistol from the 18^th Century, cap insignia and military-related posters, along with significant letters and documents.

These are all available to view at Ashby Museum.

At the meeting, which was chaired by Cllr Dan Harrison who was re-confirmed as its Chairman, Alex Moore, Vice Chairman, Matthew Proctor, Treasurer, Brian Senton and Graham Allman as committee members and a new appointment of Sam Farren as Branch Secretary. 

It was also confirmed that Michael Allsop would once again act as Parade Marshal at the forthcoming Remembrance Day service at St Helen's Church and parade through the town and Market Street to the War Memorial to be held on Sunday (November 10). 

Other appointments to national and regional committees were also discussed and duly nominated.

Dan also thanked this year's Poppy Appeal organiser Peter Edwards for all his good work along with the many appeal volunteers who freely gave their time.

Final details of the parade and Armistice Day were covered off along with a ceremony at Packington Woods, also to be held on November 10, with Vice Chairman Alex Moore taking the lead.

Dan confirmed that the next branch meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 3 - and the branch Christmas dinner will be on December 14, confirming that all members are encouraged to attend. But the dinner needs to be pre-booked.