Knaresborough’s branch of the Royal British Legion is raising funds to secure its future following a drop in income during the pandemic.
The branch has warned that without further donations it may have to close. It comes as other charities struggle to survive as they lose vital fundraising opportunities.
The legion held a stall at Knaresborough market this week to raise much-needed funds and collected just over £120.
David Houlgate, vice-chair of the Knaresborough branch, said:
“If the branch wasn’t there, there wouldn’t be a standard at the memorial services – it would have a real impact. It is imperative we keep going and after covid we need to be able to come out safe. We don’t want to disappear.”
The commemorative bench was in need of repair.
The legion is currently renovating a commemorative bench that sits across from the war memorial in the castle grounds. The bench was placed there in 1995 and was in need of repair earlier this year.
It will be repainted in time for VJ Day and, when the renovations are complete, a small service will be held in commemoration.
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Mr Houlgate added:
“We were going to do it for VE day but lockdown prevented that. We will be holding a small service on August 15 but we are keeping the time private to try and limit the number of people attending – the health and safety of the public is a priority.
“We hold stalls on Knaresborough market twice a year in August and November to keep the legion in the public consciousness. This week’s stall was to encourage people to donate anything they can – it all goes to keeping the branch going. “
