Branch shocKed

Ashford Royal British Legion branch chairman Popiraj Rai last week said: “We are really shocked and saddened by what he has done in the name of our charity.

“This affects the trust of the public that we have lost, which is sad because lots of volunteers work really hard and give up so much time to help others.

“Then it is also hard for those who are veterans and their families suffering from injuries and their wounds, who have been affected by his crime.”

He said that while the crime took place before he and the new committee members were in post, they have reviewed the procedures to make sure there is no repeat of the incident.

Thief - Derek Russell