Lutterworth Royal British Legion Branch Faces Closure Concerns Amid Membership Decline

A branch of the Royal British Legion in Lutterworth, Leicestershire, is issuing a dual appeal due to concerns about its potential closure. The group is urging the public to contribute to this autumn’s Poppy Appeal and is also seeking new members to join the branch. The branch in the town reports an average member age exceeding 70 years. Out of approximately 40 members, only about 12 are actively involved. The Royal British Legion has maintained a presence in the town for over a century, yet there are concerns that its existence may be nearing an end. Sheila Phillips, the branch secretary, stated: “We’re struggling to encourage new members – we’ve only got about 12 active members.” She added: “We’d love to do more events, get the community involved, but we haven’t got the membership and we’re too old to do it on our own.” Pete Warne, the branch chairman, further commented: “It used to be very, very active, over 150 members, and it was thriving.” He continued: “We had our own club, a youth section, a ladies section, a band – but that’s all gone.” The branch currently holds its meetings at Lutterworth Town Football Club, which actively supports the group’s endeavors. Recently, the club offered complimentary entry for veterans to its United Counties League Cup tie against Hinckley, along with providing free hot beverages. A spokesperson for the club stated: “It’s really important that we recognise the sacrifices that people in the community have made for the country.” They added: “We’re trying to help our Lutterworth branch do some fundraising to help and support local veterans.” Despite this assistance, the branch’s future remains precarious. Dick Stilgoe, president of the Lutterworth branch, remarked: “It is important that we’ve got a branch here. “It’s a centre that people can come and ask questions, and we can do things for veterans, that’s what we’re all about.” Ms Phillips further elaborated: “A majority of us are veterans ourselves, but you don’t have to be one to join the British legion. “You just have to be willing and able to help. Our forces fought so that we can stand here today.” She concluded: “They deserve to be looked after.”