The Birchington branch of the Royal British Legion has officially laid up its Standard after 42 years.
The branch held a service on Friday (May 8) at All Saints Church in the village to dedicate the new standard and rest the old one within the church.
A standard (such as a regimental colour, guidon, or Royal British Legion branch flag) is laid up as a solemn, traditional act to retire it from active service, allowing it to rest permanently in a place of significance, such as a church, cathedral, or museum.
Guests at the service included children from Birchington Primary School and more than 50 RBL members including Deputy Lieutenant of Kent, Adrian Foster.
The service was officiated by The Reverend Mark Ham assisted by church warden Loraine Bant.
Eight of the Birchington Primary pupils gave a reading and the address was given by Lt Col(Retd) Max Houghton.
Residents and carers from RBL care home Maurice House also attended the service.
It was followed by a buffet lunch donated by The Smugglers restaurant in Birchington
Very sad.
Thank you for your service.
No M.P. or ward councillors there either. Which speaks volumes of today’s politicians and how they regard the ultimate public servants.