The Royal British Legion, whose club is in Market Square, Hay on Wye, through its membership and other fund raising, helps to support current and ex-service men and women and their dependents, a really worthwhile cause, and are planning to issue a newsletter to all members in the new year, in an effort to keep them in touch with whats happening at their Legion.

Anyone can join the Legion, you don't have to be ex-service yourself.  You can become a member, for just £12 per annum, which entitles you to visit the Club, participating in the many entertainment events in the run up to Christmas and the New Year, and those run throughout the year.  But its not just a drinking club, besides being a really good cause, its a great way to meet new people, contribute to your local community, or just enjoy a drink!

You might choose to join the Women's Section, which meets once a month, organises events, but aims primarily to provide a meeting place and companionship for women, and currently has around 80 members.  A full programme of their 2010 events is on the noticeboard at the Club, but 2 special events coming up and for which you don't need to be a member are in May - Gliding at the Black Mountains Gliding Club and in June - Ladies Day at Hereford Racecourse, so you can see, the choice is many and varied ! Further info on events or membership can be obtained either through the Club, or through the Women's Section Secretary, Joy Morgan on 01497 821754.

The Legion also provides welfare services for ex-service personnel and their dependents, from advice on pensions, compensation, employment, holiday breaks at their Poppy Centres, to helping with small repairs around the house!  Although enquiries are welcome, all applications are handled in confidence through the Area Office in Cardiff and names are never mentioned locally. For more information, contact the Welfare Committee Secretary, Bernadette Barnes on 01497 831018 or the Royal British Legion at Cardiff.

The Legion hopes to keep in touch with members via the Wye Local magazine and its website, so look out for other news and events information over the coming year !