Few of us have not been moved by the television coverage of the repatriation of those brave soldiers who have lost their lives in Afghanistan.  Most particularly people are fascinated by the silent homage of the leathered bikers who are part of the world-wide Riders Branch of the Legion. As well, the news that Wootton Basset has been given the title “Royal” by the Queen for its wonderful public honouring of the corteges as they passed through the town has been very well received. Now the first soldier, Marine Sergeant “Baz” Weston has been repatriated through Brize Norton and the town there has, with the help of the Royal British Legion, established a memorial garden for a focus point in which people may pay their respects.

These things now mean that the Legion has a very high profile in the Nation’s conscience.  This was brought home to me as I watched people come up and buy poppies, without the need for tin rattling or even having to be asked.  The Rider’s Branch, the biggest of all Branches in The Royal British Legion, is helping to change the idea of the Legion in the minds of many people.  It is terrific to watch these guys in leather, with their roaring bikes and often tough looks, leading people in their acts of respect for fallen soldiers.

This year, the Riders Branch in Spain is riding in to salute and then attend our Service of Remembrance at Ciudad del Cine on 11^th November.  It will bring home to us the changing face of The Royal British Legion.  We in Coin are happy to be part of this renewed face of the Legion.  Our Branch with its varied social program and its variety of special groups catering to the special interests of our membership is working to make The Royal British Legion a relevant and accessible charity for everyone.