Leaders have hailed a 'new chapter' as full branch status of the Wallingford Royal British Legion has been restored after nine years.
At a special general meeting held at Wallingford Town Hall at the end of October, Wallingford members of the Royal British Legion voted unanimously to fully restore the Wallingford & District Branch of the armed forces charity.
It marks the first time the branch has been brought out of County Supported Branch status since 2017, and marks a 'significant turning point' for members who were concerned by the Legion's decline in activities and visibility in the town.
An AGM following the vote elected four branch officers and four committee members, who will be responsible for running and developing the branch.
Michael Quigley was elected as the new Branch Chairman, supported by Vice-Chairman Matthew Gleave, Secretary Tania Bevis and Treasurer Ron Gourley.
Mr Quigley said: "I'm incredibly proud to have been elected Chairman at what is such an important moment for our branch. Wallingford has a long and proud military history, and it's disappointing that the Royal British Legion hasn't had the active presence in the town that it deserves in recent years.
"We have a great team of people who are determined to change that.
"Our aim is to rebuild the branch, bring members together, become more involved in the community and, above all, ensure that we continue to support the men and women who have served our country, along with their families.
"This is a fresh start for the Wallingford & District Branch, and I hope people across the town and surrounding villages will get behind us and help make it a success."
The brunch currently has around 50 members and is open to anyone to join.
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