Centenary of British Legion marked with wreath laying

A short wreath-laying ceremony and act of remembrance was held on Saturday morning in Sleaford at 9am, to coincide with other ceremonies around the country and the world, marking the centenary of the Royal British Legion.

By Andy Hubbert

Published 19th May 2021, 17:20 BST

Updated 20th May 2021, 09:28 BST

The short commemoration ceremony of the Royal British Legion's centenary, at Sleaford war memorial. EMN-210517-155530001

The event at the war memorial in Sleaford Market Place was begun with a proclamation by Town Cryer John Griffiths, who explained how four military charities came together after the First World War to form the British Legion.

They fought the injustices faced by service veterans, providing welfare support and comradeship.

Vicar of Sleaford, Rev Philip Johnson, said the Legion’s prayer followed by a minute’s silence, the laying of a wreath by Sleaford branch president Ian Graham, followed by the prayer of remembrance.

The Sleaford branch will also celebrate its official centenary on August 3, when members hope it will be possible to hold a larger, local event.

British Legion John Griffiths