As part of the celebrations for the centenary of the Royal British Legion, the local Branch will carry out a ceremony whilst still remaining within the current Government COVID-19

guidelines.

As the current geographical area covers three towns and many villages, it was deemed that to celebrate the centenary of the Royal British Legion, the potential logistical issues dictated that this could only be successfully achieved at one location. It was therefore decided to perform the ceremony in Midsomer Norton at the war memorial.

The ceremony will take place on the date of the centenary, this Saturday, 15th May and will occur at 11:00hrs. However, the branch are asking the public to observe the social distancing guidelines and not to gather in large numbers.

Due to the COVID-19 regulations, it would not be possible or appropriate to hold a large ceremony with lots of people.

Therefore, the ceremony will consist of a small group of Branch members who will lay 100 wooden crosses with each year marked on it for each of the 100 years since the formation of the Legion. A wreath will also be laid to remember all of the lives lost from the district in the last 100 years.

96 wooden crosses will be pre-planted in four containers prior to the day. Following a short service and a prayer, the four final crosses will be planted by members of the Branch. The first three are to represent the main towns of Midsomer Norton, Radstock and the newly-joined town of Paulton. The final cross to be planted will represent all of the other villages in the district.

The Revd James Balliston-Thicke, the Branch Padre will officiate at the ceremony. The Branch Standard will also be present.