Paulton British Legion has very sadly announced that it will close after nearly a century in the village. And whilst ceremonies for Remembrance Day are being scaled back or cancelled, Paulton Brownies have come up with an idea to mark the occasion and brighten up local windows, too.

Just as pictures of rainbows and teddies in our windows showed community spirit during lockdown, 2nd Paulton Brownies are inviting the people of Paulton to place a picture of a poppy in their window to commemorate Remembrance Sunday.

The Brownies are unable to Parade and attend the annual service in Paulton due to the pandemic this year, but felt they would like to make sure the day did not go unrecognised. Tawny Owl, Julie Harrington, said: “It is important that the children play a part in this year’s Remembrance activities in some form and we thought this would be a great way for them to use their artistic skills and help remind people of all those who lost their lives, or who are effected by War.

“If you would like to join us, please place a Poppy in your window. It can be any kind of Poppy – draw one, buy one, we don’t mind!”

Paulton British Legion was among the first branches to be formed throughout the country and next year, should have celebrated its centenery.

Its origins began when a lorry and its driver was hired from H. Snelling, a local haulage firm, together with volunteers to go to Salisbury Plain to bring back an unwanted army hut which became the meeting room. It was erected where it stands today on land donated by Guy Heal, a Paulton solicitor.

Paulton Snooker Club have used the premises several times each week for matches and practices over many years. As the table at the legion had such a good playing surface, the area Finals have often taken place there.

Paulton Pensioners’ Club have also hired it for their meetings for a considerable time. They recently moved to Paulton Rovers Social Club due to a growing membership and the need for more space.

The Legion would like to say thank you to the members of both clubs, who have always kept the premises clean and tidy.

With much regret, the few remaining members of Paulton British Legion have informed the County office of the branch’s closure. Trevor and Sue Gardiner will continue to organise Paulton’s Poppy Appeal in future.