Chipping Norton Royal British Legion ran a new Union flag up the flagpole at the weekend to mark the launch of this year's Remembrance commemorations.

A spokesman for the branch said that the original was showing signs of wear and that the flag, which for many years flew over the Legion club in West Street, will be preserved with honour and displayed in the branch HQ, Crown & Cushion.

The new flag will be dedicated to all members of our branch who are no longer with us.

Two new benches, specially commissioned to mark the 75th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War, were also unveiled at the occasion, which marked the start of the Poppy Appeal.

The spokesman said: "On Saturday, November 2, and Sunday, November 9, we will be having our Poppy stand in the town centre as usual on these days with vintage singer Delores joining us on the first of the two events from noon.

"The usual range of Poppy paraphernalia will be available as will our two books on the men of the town who fought in the two World Wars. All proceeds to our Poppy Appeal.

"There will also be a 1940s-style tea shop in business in the lounge bar of the Crown & Cushion on the two days.

"The 2018-19 Poppy Appeal's closing total for Chipping Norton was a very pleasing £23,455.62. A hard act to follow this year but we will do our best!"

On Sunday, November 10, branch members will assemble outside Sainsbury’s at 10.15am ready to march off to the church at 10.25am.

The following day, the Armistice Day service at takes place at 10.45am at the War Memorial with a service at Over Norton shortly after then a trip to Little Rissington church at 12.30pm.