A SMALL, rural branch of the Royal British Legion is honoured to be holding this year's county rally.

The St Weonards and District branch is hosting the annual event in the village of Llanwarne in the south of the county on Saturday, June 10.

The formal part of the rally will begin at 2.15pm with an act of remembrance at the war memorial, followed by a service of commemoration in Christ Church at 3pm.

Branch secretary of St Weonards and District, Bea Morris, said: "St Weonards and District Branch is very small when compared to other branches but is extremely active in promoting the aims of the Royal British Legion.

"Most remarkably, the branch has three active members who were awarded the Legion d'Honneur by the French government as a way of honouring and thanking those who fought and risked their lives to secure the liberation of France during the Second World War."

The recipients were Peter Davies, the branch president, and Jim Jenkins and Peter Harness.

Mr Harness was also awarded the Arctic Star by HM Government and the Ushakov Medal by the Russian Federation- both awarded to Arctic Convoy Veterans.

After the church service, the salute will be taken by Christopher James, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire.

The parade of county standards and veterans will be led by the Northfield Caledonia Pipes and Drums.

Refreshments will be available after the event to be served within the ruined Church of St John the Baptist. Everyone is welcome.

Thanks to the generosity of the people of Herefordshire the county is second only to the Isle of man in the per capita amount collected during the annual Poppy Appeal.

The Royal British Legion exists to provide financial, social and emotional support to members and veterans of the British Armed Forces, their families and dependants.

Ex-service personnel who are in need can go to the Military Charities Helpdesk at the Customer Service Centre, Franklin House, Hereford on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10am and 2pm. Appointments are now also available on Mondays.

This is a free, drop-in service to support armed forces personnel, their families and veterans with a range of issues, including welfare and benefits.