Books boost British Legion fundraiser

A book exchange and blether raised hundreds of pounds, kicking off Easdale Royal British Legion’s centenary year, fundraising for forces’ charities, writes Kathie Griffiths. Although numbers were down because of a Covid spike, Saturday’s event at Seil Island Hall raised £459.50.

In the pandemic, the branch, which has just 30 active members, still managed to raise a total of £10,700, which is no mean feat says its chairman Ron Hetherington.

‘These are staggering amounts for such a small area and reflect the generosity of the communities we live in. The monies raised by our branch are annually distributed to charities nominated by the members and, while restrictions put paid to a lot of our events during the pandemic, Willy’s Wander and DJ’s Piping over the Atlantic raised substantial amounts.’

Royal British Legion Scotland received £1,700. BLESMA The Limbless Veterans charity was given £1,600, with another £1,600 going to Erskine Hospital and £1,600 to the Scottish Veterans Residences. The branch’s house-to-house collections covering Seil, Luing, Easdale and Kilmelford in 2019 made £2,235 and £1,965 in 2020 for the Poppy Scotland Appeal. If you are interested in joining the branch, no armed forces experience is necessary - contact the branch secretary Lorraine Reynolds on 01852 300046.

Easdale Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland chairman Ron Hetherington at Saturday’s book sale and blether with Ann and Stuart Reid, who helped organise the event.