The parade mustered at 11.45 outside the royal British Legion in Maylands Avenue Elm Park.

A lovely sunny day and it seemed more people than ever turned up to pay their respects to those

who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

The parade was led by the Haverettes Band, Rev Amanda and Father Tom Keighley the joint Presidents

of the branch, Councillor Barry Mugglestone Chairman of the Elm Park British Legion.  Next in the parade

were the standard bearers for the RBL, children’s groups and R J Mitchell School.  Following on were Councillor Stephanie Nunn,

Mr John Cruddas, a representative (Simon) from the Lord Lieutenant’s office, members and supporters of the RBL, brownies, guides, cubs and scouts.

Parade marshals were Gary and Trevor, ex London Fire Brigade officers.

After a moving church service in St Nicholas where wreaths were laid, the parade marched back through the

centre of Elm Park to the RBL Branch.  Cllr Mugglestone thanked everyone for their support and the parade was dismissed.

An afternoon of fund raising followed in the club, with an auction which raised £1442, a raffle which raised £620

and a variety of other activities which made a grand total of £2,409 for the Poppy Appeal on the day.  The MC and auctioneer

was Steve who also had professional singing friends there who kindly donated their time for free.

We would like to thank everyone who supported our wonderful parade on the day, all the shops and businesses who kindly

donated auction and raffle prizes and we hope Joanne White the Poppy Appeal Organiser raises even more money this year

than last year’s total of £40,000 approx.