The Royal British Legion Magazine Spain North

THE ROYAL BRITISH

LEG ION

SPAIN DISTRICT NORTH Edition 4 - January/February 2020

ation a don sider n o n i c h Please your branc is th to r o f nge excha azine mag

Remembrance and Christmas across the District

Foreword by HMA, Hugh Elliott

Š Copyright 2020

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REW RD

By Hugh Elliott

Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Spain

am delighted to be introducing District North magazine’s first edition of 2020. The start of a new year – and a new decade – is a time for looking forward, but I want to begin by reflecting on the past.

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For me, the last year has been a time of great change with a move to a new country and a new job as Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Spain. And for many of you, I know that the last year has also been a time of change and uncertainty as we have waited to see exactly what the UK’s departure from the European Union means for UK Nationals living in Spain.

Yet even in uncertain times some things remain constant: The Royal British Legion is one of them. You have been providing lifelong support to the armed forces community for almost a century and, in my six months here, I have already seen a number of examples of what that looks like on the ground in Spain.

To many of us, the Legion is only visible during the Poppy Appeal, which shines a light on the vital work of supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families – work that is only made possible because of the generous donations of the general public and your unstinting commitment to the cause. In contrast, much of your year-round support goes largely unseen.

I want to particularly pay tribute to the branches around Alicante and Murcia where, during September’s devastating floods, you provided invaluable financial and practical assistance to those who were victims of this terrible disaster.

You are a key partner to our consulates – helping to share our messages on what UK nationals need to do to prepare for Brexit and providing us with insight into their concerns; giving financial assistance to welfare cases and supporting British prisoners with visits.

It is thanks to our partnership working with the Legion and other

CONTENTS - Edition 4 Year of growth for RBL Concert Band Spain 4 Camposol Poppy Cascade 6 The Festival of Remembrance 8 Fashion statement in the Hondon Valley 9 Memorial to Wellington NA598 10 Legion Spotlight 12 On the Western Front 14 Torrevieja Christmas Cheer 16 BEM for Stevie Spit 16 Battle of Britain Hero Maurice Mounsden dies 17 The Hondon ValleyPoppy Ball and AGM 18 The British International Cemetery Valencia 20/21 DDay Veteran Celebrates 100th Birthday 22 Albox Aerobics, Calling Andover RBL, New President for OCosta, Commonwealth Visa Fees 24 Orihuela Costa Poppy Ball 26 Translating the Launch into Donations 28 Poppies Blooming in Benidorm 29

charities that we are able to resolve some of our most difficult consular cases.

With such an impressive track record, as we look ahead to the new decade, we can do so with great confidence in the continuing strength of the Legion.

Our partnership with you is tremendously important to us, and I have every admiration for the work you will continue to do serve our communities here in Spain.

A huge thank you from me personally, and on behalf of the British Embassy and British Consulates across Spain. I wish you every success for 2020!

Hondon Valley Poppy Appeal Orihuela Costa Poppy Appeal Overseas.es Support for Poppy Appeal Poppy-Tastic, Golfing support for Appeal Remembrance Services across the District Orihuela Costa, British Embassy, Alicante, Hondon Valley, Pinoso, Javea, Benidorm and Gandia Who We Are Branch Directory

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With thanks to the following for their contributions: www.murciatoday.com Zoe Cooper ww.objectivotorrevieja.es Jack Kemp Peggy Wyatt Percy Chattey Diana Bridle Neil Pavitt Malcolm and Mary Rusbridge Don Cubbon Filip Ostrowski Malcolm Cavendish Colin Hindmarsh Mick the Grip’ Mark Walden British Embassy Madrid PDT

CONTACT INFORMATION FOR SPAIN (NORTH) For all information and support enquiries only please ring 676 451 780 Or email: Spainnorth.communitysupport@rbl.community For all other queries, please ring 634 363 288 This service is available between 10am and 2pm, Monday to Friday.

Take a look at our website http://counties.britishlegion.org.uk/counties/spain-north ARTI ARTI C LE S F O R MAY/ MAY/ J U N E E D ITI O N To reach y 1 MAY reach the editor by

by Frida Friday MAY at: dnsmagazine@theleader.info

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Year of Growth for RBLBand

Costa Blanca (South) based Musicians sought to strengthen the RBL Concert band on either a casual or a regular basis

Zenia Boulevard

t was pleasing to see quite a healthy crowd gathered in La Zenia just prior to Christmas where, for the very first occasion, Carols in the Boulevard took place, and already the organisers are learning from the event with a view to making it much, much bigger and better in 2020.

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The carols were performed by the Royal British Legion Concert Band in Spain, under the direction of MD David Last, with assistance from a smattering of helpers and choristers from the local area.

Following their success at the Torrevieja service on the previous Friday the RBL Band played for approximately 45 minutes, during which time the gathering got through 16 carols, both in English and in Spanish, in celebration of Christmas in the municipality.

Carol sheets were made available but there is a need for rather better amplification if the event is to achieve the same prominence that the Torrevieja event has in the neighbouring municipality.

At the Torrevieja event (see front page image) the band was joined by musicians from the Spanish Wind and Youth Band, the Crescendo and Studio 32 Choir and one or two other choirs that wished to join in the fun.

The Torrevie ja mayor, Ed uardo Dolon, and ci ty councillors

The event was also held in memory of founder band member Bill Singleton, who recently passed away, thanks and condolences to whom (right) were regulary displayed on the large Town Hall Screen.

With lessons learned at Zenia Boulevard Im sure that event too can become a service that will attract many hundreds of carollers from all nationalities in the years to come.

As the band continues to grow MD David Last said that he is keen to attract additional musicians, and is looking for around five or six new members of any age or nationality that play any instrument, but particularly trumpet, clarinet or violin - although there are always vacancies for brass, woodwind and percussion musicians.

The band rehearses every Tuesday at 4pm in the basement of the Sophia Wellness Centre at La Regia and plays a wide variety of music from songs from the musicals, marches, ballads, singa-long, novelty pieces as well as carols and hymns for special services and occasions.

Anyone interested in joining the band is welcome to call in and have an informal chat. Music readers are especially welcome, but lessons can be given, and being a friendly bunch, Royal British Legion Band members are happy to help 'rusty' players find their feet again and rediscover their musical passion.

In recent weeks the band has played at the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal Launch in Benidorm and The Remembrance services in both Mil Palmeras and La Siesta Church.

In November it played at Zenia Boulevard, once in support of the Pink Ladies Santa Walk, and in the run up to Christmas it also played for Torrevieja RBL and at Los Balcones Church.

For more information call Graham Robinson on 0044 7724 064251 or email him at: robinsongraham256.googlemail .corn The Band also has a Facebook page 'Royal British Legion Concert Band Spain'

sal is held Band rehear y every Tuesda

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Words: www.murciatoday.com Image: Zoe Cooper

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Camposol poppy cascade pays tr ib ute to the fall en housands of hours of love have gone into building this extraordinary knitted tribute The fruit of thousands of hours of patient knitting, crocheting and sewing was unveiled at the Saint Nicholas Ecumenical Church as the ladies and their friends proudly presented the fruits of their labours in a simple ceremony attended by the Mayor of Mazarrón, Gaspar Miras, and the councillor for Camposol and foreign residents, Silvana Buxton.

Over 4,000 poppies had been made during the previous two years, and these were sewn into a stunning poppy cascade as well as a striking altarpiece for the church, a labour of love which supported the annual Poppy Appeal run by The Royal British Legion.

The Saint Nicholas Ecumenical Church is itself a testament to the community spirit which resides amongst the international, indeed multinational, community both in and around the municipality of Mazarrón and is located on the Camposol urbanisation, the largest of the many residential urbanisations built for sale to international buyers during the Spanish building boom of the 1990’s and early “noughties”.

Home to thousands of international residents, Mazarrón contains the highest percentage of foreign residents of any of the 45 municipalities within the Region of Murcia, many of whom prefer to wor-

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ship in their native language, and through community effort and dedication have founded their own Ecumenical church to offer services in both English and German.

Fully registered as a legal church within Spain, it is run by an elected council of church members and is located within a property purchased by the church itself following years of fundraising, converted and consecrated as a place of worship, providing an important central footstone of the international community.

Activities such as this to create the stunning poppy cascade are part of the fabric which is glued together by the faith of its members and provides support, friendship and fellowship to those who choose to participate to whatever degree in its activities.

The ladies who made this wonderful piece of art chose to use both red and purple poppies in their creation, supporting the annual Poppy Appeal which was first launched in 1921, aiming to not only remember all those who died in the bloody battles of the First World War, but also raising money for the families of service men and women who had perished, the red poppy chosen to reflect the drifts of red poppies which sprung from the blood-soaked fields of northern France and Belgium.

Since then millions of pounds has been raised to help those affected by not only the first, but also

the Second World Wars, with poppies sold worldwide, including here in Spain.

In recent years expressions of solidarity through the use of the powerful image of poppies has become more commonplace, one of the most extraordinary being the fields of ceramic poppies created by artists Paul Cummins and Tom Piper in 2014 which encircled the Tower of London, although as is normal in this world, there has been disagreement over the symbolism of the red poppy and the emergence of two alternative poppy colours used in public tributes.

Some refuse to wear red poppies claiming the symbolism of red poppies has become a political tool to justify war, and the peace Pledge Union now distributes around 10,000 white poppies a year to “remember all those killed in war" and seeking to bring an end to "the exclusion of civilians from mainstream Remembrance events."

The Royal British Legion says it "defends the right to wear different poppies" and says that the red poppy "is a symbol of peace inclusive of all regardless of race, belief, origin, or sexual/gender identity.”

Purple poppies are also included in the knitted tribute of the Camposol ladies, commemorating the eight million horses and donkeys, as well as the untold millions of other animals killed during the First World War and worldwide in multiple wars of our own making.

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District represented at the Festival of Remembrance was honoured and privileged to represent Spain District North and Alicante Branch at The Festival of Remembrance (FOR) at The Royal Albert Hall on Saturday 9th November 2019.

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Standard Bearer thinking of taking part would be to practice standing at the carry for 10 minutes and see how long it takes for you right elbow to drop from the horizontal position.

I was one of 110 Standard Bearers and I would highly recommend all Standard Bearers to attend the FOR at least once, it is such a moving experience. I arrived in London on Thursday afternoon, and spent the rest of that day re-bulling my sling and shoes after the careful handling of my baggage by the airline NOT.

After the afternoon performance it was back to the rest area, which presented an opportunity to polish again my sling and shoes. Hot meal followed, which I must say was extremely good, especially when you consider the numbers that were being catered for.

Friday afternoon was the first rehearsal and a chance to be introduced to WO1 (GSM) Andrew Stokes, Coldstream Guards, who was responsible for all ceremonial aspects of the FOR. This was our first chance to understand just how hard it was going to be, holding the Standard in the Carry for such long periods was going to be a challenge.

Saturday morning was the second rehearsal which lasted over two hours, but by the end we all understood the requirements.

Brake for lunch, which was in a brown paper bag, those of you that have served will know exactly what that was like.

After lunch it was time to change into full parade dress ready for the afternoon performance. It was good to see that as we marched into the arena that virtually all the seats were taken.

I mentioned that it was quite a challenge to hold the correct position for such a long time, and for one of the Standard Bearers it was just too much and unfortunately he had to sit down due to the heat and the strain on him, so my advice to any

Before we knew where we were, it was time to get back into Parade Dress for the evening show in front of Her Majesty The Queen and members of the Royal Family, although you should always give your very best on all parades to be performing in front of the Queen just makes you give 110%.

The show was so moving even after two rehearsals and the afternoon performance to see and hear the experience’s and selfless sacrifices given by others I would challenge anyone not to have a lump in their throat.

It certainly was Remember Together which was the theme for this years FOR, listening to ex service personnel that has served over 75 years ago made me appreciate how easy my 40 year’s service had been when compared to the commitment made by so many, some paying the ultimate sacrifice, over 600,000 British and Commonwealth personnel never returned home.

District Parade Marshall Jack Kemp, pictured right, represented both the Alicante Branch and District

Fashion statement made in Hondón de los Frailes Hondón Linen and Luxury Goods held a Winter Fashion Show last Saturday in the village of Hondón de los Frailes. Billie, Stella and Pete turned the shop into a superb Fashion Show with a catwalk for the models. Outfits went from warm winter creations to colourful Christmas fashions. The six models took to the catwalk to great applause showcasing fashion items from the store. The event was compered by Dave Sparks who also provided music to get everyone in the mood.

After enjoying the show, followed by cave, nibbles and cakes, there was a draw for the Grand Raffle.

Proceeds from the day were kindly shared with the local Hondón Valley Branch of The Royal British Legion for the Poppy Appeal – thus supporting the

many veterans in need here in Spain. The afternoon is expected to raise in the region of 400€ for the charity.

Billie said it was a great atmosphere and thanked all those who supported them and the Legion on a chilly November afternoon.

Neil Pavitt, Chairman of the Hondón Valley Branch, also paid tribute to everyone who had planned the event and to local people who had come along. “We are exceedingly grateful to Billie, Stella and Pete for generously supporting our veterans”.

Hondón Linen and Luxury Goods can be found on Calle Virgen de la Salud 13, close to the centre of Hondón de los Frailes.

The photo shows Billie (centre) and Stella, (left), together with all the models.

Information about Branch activities can be obtained from the secretary by email: hondonvalley.secretary@rbl.community or by visiting our website: www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/hondon-valley

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WELLINGTON NA 598 RAFA provide fitting Memorial to crew of Wellington NA598 The British Defence Attaché and the Alicante Vice Consul joined members of RAFA, the RBL, Spanish and UK military authorities and the families of the 7 RAF personnel who tragically lost their lives on the Montgo Mountain, Dénia in an accident on 5 December 1950.

The crew of Wellington NA598 were flying from RAF Shawbury to Gibraltar when they encountered thunderstorms and poor visibility, forcing the aircraft to fly at low altitude and off course.

On Thursday the 5th of December, on a day that dawned bright and clear, a group of about 40 climbed up to the site to witness the unveiling and dedication of a memorial funded and provided by RAFA Costa Blanca North.

Following the dedication and a few words of homily and tribute the party then descended and gathered at the Chapel "Pare Perre" on the Denia side of Montgo, where a congregation of 90 people assembled for a service of remembrance.

derstorm and was reported to be off course and flying below minimum height. Crew of 7 all killed: F/Lt Leonard West (Pilot). W.O. (M/Nav.) Peter Pullar DFM. F/Lt Robert James Baker. F/Sgt Ernest Hansom. AC1 Neville Jones. AC1 Roy Owen Ouseley. AC1 Peter Field Thorne.

The bodies of the crew were all recovered and were later buried in the Gibraltar (North Front) Cemetery.

No investigation was ever carried out as to the reasons for the crash as relations between Spain and UK were somewhat fraught at the time. We do know that the wreckage of the aircraft was later sold for scrap to a Madrid dealer in order to cover the costs of the recovery which amounted to 26,917 pesetas.

Newspaper reports state that the sale showed a profit of 6,000 pesetas which was given to charity At the time the event was national news, with a story published in the newspaper ABC. Indeed that story can still be found in the newspaper archives today.

Bugler John Connolly from the Alicante Branch of The RBL

It did however record the number of fatalities incorrectly reducing them to four.

The memorial, dedication and service was organised by the North Costa Blanca branch of the RAF Association, who after researching the tragedy, managed to trace the relatives of many of the crew who died in the crash and then organised for the memorial to be erected overlooking the crash site.

Testimony of the first person to find the exact location of the remains of the fuselage, beyond the Camí Colonia, is recorded in the Municipal Archives as Jaume Costa. A team was quickly put together to climb Montgó, to find out if there were survivors and to recover the bodies. A photograph lists the members as: Juan Reig, José Noguera, Juan Roselló and a local priest, Father Adrián.

A report at the time said; Wellington (Central Navigation and Control School) on training flight from Shawbury, UK to Khartoum via Gibraltar & Cyprus returning via Malta.

Aircraft flew into Montgo Mountain in a thun-

The mountain is said to always remember its dead and on one of the rocks next to the accident site is the following verse from Isaiah: “Those who wait on God will renew their forces as eagles.”

Four of the Standard Bearers also climbed the mountain with their Standards

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LEGION SPOTLIGHT 12

Author & Writer, Percy Chattey In the autumn of 1954 I was posted to GHQ (General Headquarters) in Nairobi, to operate the one and only link to the regiment for ordering stores and making reports to the centre of operations. This facility I had to operate was the only way GHQ and my previous unit could communicate securely. It was a one man operation, and as I liked working on my own it suited me perfectly.

Leaving the tented home and moving to very comfortable accommodation, living well and with my own Dhobi (washing) boy, who not only made my bed with clean sheets every day but also at the same time took my clothes for washing bringing my laundry back perfectly ironed which was great, I liked the life style.

There was more than that; a whole city and two safari parks to explore, a night life with others in the unit to enjoy and the weather a lot kinder than in the mountains.

My Army 19 Model Wireless Set, in the picture across, was first developed in the Second World War. This particular model has an extra power unit on the top to boost the outgoing signal. The image was taken in my own office in GHQ. I used the machine every day receiving coded reports or requests for stores, in Morse code from the Regiment. Morse code was a system I was taught while in Kenya and I became very proficient with it sending and receiving about sixty words a minute, the speed only determined by the speed the person could write the message when receiving it.

One request I remember quite clearly, was an order from the Regiment for antifreeze. The reply from GHQ was ‘What do you want antifreeze for you are only a few miles from the equator?’ The explanation was that the vehicles who were working clearing the forest and making roads on Mount Kenya, (which has a snow peak all year round), their drivers had to drain the radiators every evening to prevent the engines from freezing overnight.

The picture of Mount Kenya was taken from my tent in Nyeri; the forest can be seen below the peaks. A troop of the Regiment was working in that area; at that height it is possible to put your hand in boiling water as the boiling point is very low because of the thin atmosphere.

The work I was doing was very important and secret so it was not well known because it was vital that the terrorists did not get to know of its existence. The traffic between the Regiment and GHQ could be either in plain language or in code which I would change into English unless it was marked top secret.

The link between the two units was open twice a day first thing in the morning and then again in the late afternoon. One day around lunch time, I was walking back to my billet when the Sergeant Major stopped me and told me to follow him. He had been rounding up personnel and putting them on a lorry. There was some kind of event taking place in a hall outside of GHQ and they needed bodies to make sandwiches for a buffet.

I tried to explain that I could not go because I had to be available later in the afternoon, but he would not listen and ordered me to get on the truck. When we arrived at the venue he singled me out, I guess because I had been difficult, to slice onions, and there was a big pile of them and as soon as I started cutting them tears started to roll down my face.

I was in a quandary I did not dare ignore the direct order of the superior officer and stop what I was doing, and yet time was passing to when I should be opening the rear link. The officer I dealt with at GHQ was a Major St John - there I was in this sort of shelter with tears running down my face when he walked by. He did a double take and asked me what I was doing there. I explained to him what happened, he nodded his head and pointing to his Land Rover and told me to tell his driver to take me back to my office, saying that he would deal with the Sergeant Major.

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On the Western Front I feel we want to share our trip to Ypres in Belgium with readers.

It came about because of our involvement with the RBL Orihuela Costa branch. Our two sons thought that it would be appropriate to visit Ypres in Belgium. Also, with both being seventy it was a present from them all.

Fully arranged and organized by our sons and their wives, a crossing on the Euro tunnel followed by an hours journey to a very warm and welcoming bed and breakfast. Very important when a lot of walking is involved, particularly if you want to see the Commonwealth war graves.

We saw the tribute to Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae who penned the words to ' In Flanders fields'. We also passed Harry Patch's stone where he bravely served in the trenches.

Malcolm and Mary Rusbridge at the Menin Gate

There were ridges that were important to each attack, but that were not visible due to the flat earth. Also hearing the news of bodies still being found and farmers being blown up after digging up bombs still left in the ground is concerning.

An organised tour was arranged and the information and events explained by the tour guide were very moving putting us in the picture of what this war was like.

Langemark, Hill 62, Passchendalle and Hell fire roundabout. All names that are significant in many of the battles.

We visited the grave of the 15 year old boy and, we would be lying if we said that we did not have tears in our eyes at the time.

Relating this lad to the same age of our grandsons was very emotional. We paid tribute to him by spending time considering his bravery as, we would not be here today but for these young lads putting their lives on the line.

The average age of the soldiers shown on the grave stones was about 25..

Neither could we deal with the number of executions quite probably due to PTSD which is recognised today in many soldiers that we work hard to support through the RBL. Ill health was also rife in the trenches and many many men died of Infections through disease.

Bit the highlight of our trip was being able to lay a wreath at the Menin gate on the 15th October, on behalf of our branch.

It was very appropriate that the branch meeting was taking place in Spain at the very time that Mary and I were laying the wreath. It was an absolute privilege.

For those of you who have made this trip you will understand what we saw and how it felt to us all. From Tyne Cott, Poperinge, Ypres and West Flanders it was an absolute must see.

I will add that it was very difficult trying to get through the 25 beers on offer in the bars but, our two sons had a good go along with their wives.

Malcolm and Mary Rusbridge

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Torrevieja’s Christmas Cheer

Torrevieja RBL Carol Singing

the Members and washed down by wine sherry and the odd glass of beer.

losing the final meeting of the year the new Branch Chairman, Diana Bridle, thanked everyone for all their hard work throughout the year and she also gave a general overview of the new ideas which she hoped to bring forward in January which she hoped would help allow the branch to do even bigger and better things whilst also having a lot of fun doing it.

The Torrevieja Branch of the Royal British Legion ended their last meeting of the year by hitting the high notes.

Accompanied by the Royal British Legion Concert Band, and in most cases suitably attired the members gave good voice to all the old and familiar carols.

Once again, the enactment of the 12 Days of Christmas brought forth usual hilarity, and great fun was had by all.

At the end of the singing there was a superb buffet provided by

Torrevieja RBL Christmas Party

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‘Stevie Spit’ awarded BEM Brian Thomas McLeod, an entertainer who is perhaps better known as Stevie Spit, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to charity in the New Year Honours List.

When not working in Spain as one of the Costa Blanca’s top female impersonators, under his stage name of Stevie Spit, Brian dedicates much of his time to fundraising and has personally assisted scores of charities.

He is a member of the Orihuela Costa Branch of The Royal British Legion and often organises charity fundraising nights on their behalf.

He also helps the Elche Children’s Care Home and he almost singlehandedly raised enough money to send Natasha Lynch to the USA for lifesaving medical treatment.

At great risk to himself, he has taken his drag act to Kabul, where he has raised thousands of dollars for local causes.

he Torrevieja Branch of the Royal British Legion help their annual Christmas lunch party at La Cosecha Restaurant in Benijofar.

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Diana Bridle (left) is the new Chairperson of Torrevieja

The Christmas lunch at La Cosecha Restaurant in Benijofar.

Well over 60 members were able to attend and they all once again enjoyed a lovely meal in the extremely relaxing and pleasant surroundings of the restaurant.

The organisation of this event by Gerry Lynch also marked the end of his tenure as Branch Chairman.

He has been a wonderful ambassador for the Royal British Legion, taking on many tasks to ensure that all events went well.

However, he is not leaving the Branch and will continue in the role of a supportive Legion Member.

Singing at the Orihuela Costa Remembrance

HMA Hugh Elliott said: “Stevie (as most people know him) is a truly inspirational fundraiser.

His enthusiasm is such that whenever he organises one of his many impromptu charity fundraisers it is almost a guaranteed success, such is his support from the local Costa Blanca community.”

Stevie said: “In the years when I was flitting in and out of Afghanistan, under the radar of the Taliban in order to raise desperately needed funds for war-torn children, I never dreamed that it would ever lead to me being awarded a BEM. I’m feeling very honoured to be recognised in this way.”

The 12 Days of Christmas brought forth the usual hilarity

Battle of Britain hero Maurice Mounsden dies

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Maurice Mounsden, one of only four remaining pilots who fought in the Battle of Britain during World War Two - has died.

According to family members, Maurice, aged 101, is understood to have passed away at the nursing home where he lived on the island of Menorca.

"He was a great man and will be missed by his nephews and his nieces," nephew Adrian Mounsdon told the British press.

Maurice, with 56 Squadron, was one of 3,000 men who risked their lives in a three-and-a-half month campaign, in which 544 RAF pilots and aircrew died.

The dashing figure of Maurice in his days as a Hurricane pilot during WW2 Maurice with Sqn Ldr Martin Pert of The Red Arrows

In September last year, the Hurricane pilot celebrated his 100th birthday in style in Menorca, watching the Red Arrows’ smoke trails write ‘100’ in red, blue and white over the Mediterranean in a dazzling 30-minute performance.

Just a month later Maurice was presented with a beautiful glass plaque bearing the coat of arms of the Royal British Legion and the Royal Air Force Association, by Tina Graham the RBL Welfare Officer in Menorca. She passed on the heartfelt thanks and best wishes of the Chairman, the District North Committee and all of the District members.

Following the presentation Tina said “We are all very proud of Maurice and the service he has given.”

“He is a shining example that we all hold very dear.”

Tina making the presentation to Maurice on behalf of Spain District North

The Hondón Valley Branch of The Royal British Legion Annual Poppy Ball.

120 Members and guests arrived at Restaurante Ya in Aspe to find a beautifully decorated Function Room ready for a great evening. The organiser of the event, Carol, named each table after a specific variety of poppy with interesting anecdotes. Each guest was given a packet of poppy seeds to “plant a memory” - a lovely touch.

Musical entertainment was provided by “Elephant and Castle” a local Spanish duo, followed by Rob Sweeney giving his “tribute to Michael Bublé and Friends” where guests showed their dance moves.

There was a “Take your Pick” game followed by a Grand Raffle containing over 45 amazing prizes and the whole evening is expected to raise around 1000 euro for the Poppy Appeal and the veterans in Spain.

This was a great evening and a superb fund raising event.

Annual General Meeting The Branch held its AGM on Tuesday 19th November, in Hondón de los Frailes.

The President and Chairman both commented on the huge amount of work undertaken by Branch members for the Charity. Members had also been busy helping the local community who had suffered terrible flooding in September.

The President, Peter Lodge MBE, paid tribute to those helpful members who were still supporting the local community. A number of well attended events had been held during the year raising vital money for the Poppy Appeal and our veterans.

The Legion’s core role is to support the Armed Forces Community and the Chairman, Neil Pavitt, paid tribute to Sheila the Branch Community Support Officer who had assisted a number of local people during the year.

He welcomed the new Branch Vice Chairman, Joe Logan. Neil would be revealing the total amount raised for the Poppy Appeal during the December meeting.

At the end of the formal part of the meeting a member Dave Sparks talked of (some) of his experiences in the Royal Navy and showed members a beautiful blown glass poppy which would be auctioned for the Poppy Appeal.

The evening ended with a surprise social time. Members of the local drama group (DIVAS – Drama in the Valley Association) and from Campoverde entertained members.

There were hilarious poems by Pam Ayres from Jill and Chris and this was followed by slightly irreverent Salvation Army hymns from

Anna, Helen and Jo. Then came Barbara with her rendition of that great Stanley Holloway favourite – Albert and the Lion.

The evening ended with a great entrance from a rather over exuberant “Mrs Brown” (Aka Anna) who read a comical “letter to her son” and then discussed her wish to have plastic surgery! A superb end to the evening with members asking “when can everyone come back again?!!”

The Branch meets on the third Tuesday of each month and details can be obtained from the Secretary on: hondonvalley.secretary@rbl.community, or visit our website: www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/hondon-valley.

The photo above shows l-r Jo, Anna, Chris, Jill, Barbara and Helen

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British International Cemetery Valencia n 27th Oct and 1st Nov, Lyn and I were fortunate to be invited to the British International Cemetery in Valencia, by Diana Clifton-Sewell (Vice President), to represent the Royal British Legion and to participate in their informal and formal Open Days; what follows is a short resume of the history of this fascinating, small, corner of Valencia.

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Originally called the British Protestant Cemetery, DNS Chairman Don Cubbon writes about the informal ‘Open Day’ that he recently attended, as a representative of the RBL, at the mid-19th Century graveyard.

The British International Cemetery of Valencia is one of the city’s best kept secrets and one that demonstrates that Valencia has always had a large population of foreigners dedicated to all kinds of commercial activity, particularly the development of Valencia’s railways and port.

In 2015 an international group of residents in Valencia tidied the cemetery up, and opened it to the general public on November 1st, All Saints’ Day, when people often visit their relatives graves.

Since the mid-19th century, some kind of British International Cemetery has been known to exist in Valencia from municipal records, although it wasn’t until 1870 that the present site began shaping up to be the cemetery that stands today. The cemetery was originally set up to provide a resting place for Protestants who were not allowed to be interred in Catholic cemeteries.

Among those to be found there are members of the International Brigades of the Spanish Civil War, A Turkish-born Greek Jew on the run from the Holocaust, merchants, engineers, ex-Consuls and even the founder of Valencia Tennis Club, Alfredo Faulconbridge, who despite the name was British, and who exported oranges to the UK from Valencia.

Municipal records from 1851 refer to the inadequacy of the site being used to bury British citizens in Valencia, who before the Royal Decree of 13th November 1831, along with non-Catholic nationals of all countries, were dumped into the sea at low tide.

View to the entrance from the cemetery

The first British International Cemetery was built the same year in Malaga, and among those buried there is Gerald Brenan, the English writer who brought fame to the Alpujarra mountains through his books such as ‘South from Granada’ or ‘The Spanish Labyrinth’.

Nine years after the assignment of a site in Valencia, Valencia Councillor Cristóbal Pascual y Genis (who has a central street named after him where, coincidentally, the British Council had its first site in Valencia) was still calling for the resolution of the problem, while noting that trade with the UK was increasing substantially.

It was largely the intervention of British Vice Consul Enrique Dart y Anglin that made the present-day cemetery a reality.

Many of the engineers, technicians and sailors drawn to the Valencian region in the early and mid- 1800s with the development of its industrialisation, and who ended their lives in Valencia, were British. The ports of Gandia, Denia, Alicante and Valencia were established or extended by northern European as well as British engineers, as were several mining projects and steelworks. British engineers created a railway network linking Cartagena, Alicante, Denia and Alcoy.

There are approximate 325 graves, but only 217 are indexed. It’s known that there were burials prior to 1863, but are not sure where or when. Unfortunately, during the Civil War, records were lost in the chaos, in spite of the efforts of the Swiss Consul and Red Cross to continue its supervision.

Enrique Dart y Anglin, a British Consul and founder of the Cemetery, retired to Brighton, England, where he died on 11th November, 1894; he was buried in Kensal Green Cemetery in London. There is a monument in the Cemetery to his memory adorned with this inscription: “Erected by the British residents and other friends in Valencia as a token of esteem for his worth and many valuable services as British Vice Consul and personal friend during his 39-year residence.”

The well-tended plots are cared for by volunteers

Two British Consuls, who frequently officiated at burials, are buried in the Cemetery; Edward Harker (Born Hull 5th October, 1865 – Died Valencia 5th April, 1934) and Francisco (Paco) Dalby (Born Valencia 25th April, 1908 – Died Valencia 13th April,1988) The first listed burial for which records currently exist was that of 8-year old Charles, son of Henry and Emma Morris, who died on 6th June 1863. Sadly 13 infants under the age of 2, as well as 6 or more children also failed to live a full life.

However, the “oldest resident” is Ino Mauricio Jahiel Matalon, born in Salonica, Greece, who lived to the great old age of 99 and was buried with full Jewish rites, when he passed away in September 1985.

Alfred Faulconbridge (1864-1932), born in Liverpool, who founded in 1905 the “Sporting Club de Tenis” nowadays known as the Valencian Tennis Club, also rests in the Cem. His tombstone reads: “In loving memory of Alfred Faulconbridge, beloved husband of Helen Falconbridge”.

Albert Hindley, Chairman of Blackpool Football Club, suffered a heart attack whilst holidaying in Valencia in 1962, and was laid to rest here aged 70.

Lt. Commander (Ret.) George Johnstone (1880-1934) was the Scottish-born son of Admiral Charles Johnstone.

There is even the grave of an escapee from Pentonville Prison, who must remain nameless, but who was captured by the Spanish police in 1966 at the age of 30, and died shortly afterwards from diabetes.

Also interred here is one of the original cast members of “Z Cars” which some of our older readers will remember.

Although the British International Cemetery by name, it is actually multi-denominational and multi-national and available to all. There are more than 21 nationalities, including Spanish Catholics and non-Catholics, buried within its walls.

The Valencian architect, Antonio Martorell,

signed off the plans on 2nd April 1879. It included the ornamental façade with the coat of arms of the United Kingdom.

The gate that leads to the Cemetery itself, and the stained-glass entry door, were designed

by Valencian artist, Vicente Sancho Fuster, as was the Chapel - all of which were added in 1907.

As the majority of the then buried were British, the land was presented to the British Monarchy by the British Consul of the time and other expatriates, and administered by the Crown Agents, now the Estates Department.

Today, the British International Cemetery continues to belong to the British Crown, with the Royal Coat of Arms over the entrance.

The disconnection caused by both the Spanish Civil and the two World Wars, greatly reduced the numbers of British and other foreign businessmen and their family’s resident in Spain, and the Cemetery suffered accordingly.

In the mid-1970s, the retiring British ViceConsul, Francisco “Paco” E. Dalby, undertook responsibility for its administration, when the Consulate was closed. Funds had been achieved by the sale of part of the original cemetery land which were used to keep the place going, but the lack of interest, the reduction of burials and vandalism took its toll.

The Cemetery has been administered on an honorary basis for the last 30 years by a Nottingham-born Chartered Engineer, Trevor Nicholas.

Our visit, and the opportunity to support the Royal British Legion, was much appreciated by all those who attended and we certainly enjoyed the opportunity to meet some of the many British expats who live and work in and around the city of Valencia. We would encourage anyone visiting Valencia to take the time to visit the British International Cemetery.

We look forward to maintaining our links with the many volunteers who care for this site and to attending their next Open Day.

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D Day Veteran Celebrates 100th birthday

Eddie Coleman, 2nd from the left, presenting a Certificate of Distinction to Percy in Villamartin, on the occasion of his 100th birthday

Three years ago Percy was awarded France’s highest distinction, the Légion d’honneur, by French Ambassador to the UK Sylvie Bermann

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ercival Chafer celebrated his 100th birthday recently with two ‘bashes’. The first was held on the actual day of his birthday at Eduardos, Villamartin Plaza.

That was last Tuesday night, a dinner with family and friends, and then on Friday a much more informal party was held for the former ‘Desert Rat’ in Chemies Lounge, where the sprightly centenarian was entertained by Dan Davy.

Earlier in the week Percy was further delighted to receive a birthday card signed personally by Queen Elizabeth II. The card was delivered by recorded post to Correos in Playa Flamenca from where it was picked up by son Tony.

On the Friday morning Percy had another surprise when he was visited by the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Orihuela Costa and District Branch of the Royal British Legion, Kevin Reardon and Eddie Coleman, who gave him a birthday card from members before presenting him with a President’s Certificate of Loyal Service and an invitation to attend the branch anytime that he is in Spain.

Working on the railways at the time Percy was called up for active service shortly after the outbreak of WW2. After basic training in Aldershot he was moved to the north of Scotland from where he then set sail for the Middle East.

Percy spent the next 3 years in Africa with the 7th armoured brigade, with whom he fought in many of the major battles in North Africa, including Operation Crusader in November. During that period he served in Egypt, Libya and Tunisia, taking in Tobruk, Benghazi and Tripoli.

In 1942 he moved to 30 Corps with whom he travelled back to Europe serving in the reclamation of France from June 1944 in the Allied Invasion of Normandy, and then in Operation Market Garden, in the Netherlands, and finally in Operation Veritable in Germany until May 1945.

Picking up many awards and medals along the way, just 3 years ago at a ceremony held at the French Embassy in London, Percy was awarded with the country’s highest distinction, the Légion d’honneur,

by French Ambassador Sylvie Bermann.

The presentation took place in the presence of Lord Howe, Deputy Leader of the House of Commons and Minister of State for Defence.

Percy travelled back to his London home in Pimlico on Sunday but now, as a member of the Orihuela Costa Branch of the RBL he says that his visits to Villamartin, where he shares an apartment with son Tony, will be much more frequent, as he intends to get to know the members of his new branch rather better.

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ALBOX Aqua Aerobics Over the Summer months the ladies of Cerro Cruz ladies’ aqua aerobics group met every Friday at 11am and had fun in the pool whilst exercising.

Anything up to twelve ladies plus the teacher Claire would meet, over the months new friendships were made and birthdays were celebrated with cake and sangria.

A Euro from each lady went into the Poppy Box for the Poppy Appeal. A grand total of 150€ was raised by this ingenious method for the Poppy Appeal.

Commonwealth Visa Fees

Calling Andover Malcolm Cavendish, the treasurer of the Orihuela Costa Branch, paid a visit to our friends in Andover recently where he was given an extremely warm welcome.

However he tells me that he was more than a little surprised to find that the members were not aware of the existence of branches in Spain so to put that right and to

ensure that they all now know we are alive and well he gave them a number of our magazines with the promise that we would say ‘hello’ to them all in our next edition, especially to Shirley Brailey and Jim Carnegie [ex royal signals] who are both pictured above.

Well done ladies getting healthy and raising funds in a fun way and donated to Albox Branch.

New President for the Orihuela Costa The Annual General Meeting of the Orihuela Costa and District Branch of the Royal British Legion took place recently with virtually all of the current committee returned.

The only change was the addition of Peter Houghton who take over the role of Membership Secretary from Walter Montford.

Walter, a practising solicitor, will remain on the committee in an ex officio capacity.

There was one major change to the Board, however, the appointment of former Navy diver Graham Rhodes to the Presidency. Graham replaced Pastor Keith Brown who has held the position of Branch President for the last eight years.

On assuming the role Graham made a short speech thanking Pastor Keith for his commitment and ded-

The UK relies on the bravery and sacrifice of members of the UK Armed Forces drawn from across the Commonwealth yet charges them thousands to continue to live here when they leave. This has to end.

Currently when Commonwealth personnel leave the UK Armed Forces and wish to apply to continue to live in the country they have served for years, they face thousands of pounds of fees to do so.

A Service leaver with a partner and two children will be presented with a bill of almost £10,000 to continue to live in the UK, despite their years of sacrifice and service on behalf of our nation.

STOP THE SER VICE CHAR GE Write to your MP today to ask them to stop the service charge.

The handover of Presidents with Pastor Keith Brown on the right. ication to the Branch during his tenure of office. A toast was then proposed to Keith and his lovely wife Cathy.

Pastor Keith, also relinquished his position of Branch Chaplain which has been assumed by the Reverend Terry Baxter.

Exorbitant immigration fees are no way to say thank you for their Service, and risk pushing commonwealth personnel into poverty just for wanting stability as they leave Service.

Without leave to remain, UK Armed Forces veterans are cut off from being able to access employment or state support, leaving them and their families reliant on charitable funds or facing repatriation to their country of origin.

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The Orihuela Costa and District P OP PY B ALL POPPY BALL RAISES IMPORTANT FUNDING FOR LEGION VETERANS The Orihuela Costa and District Branch of the Royal British Legion held its annual Poppy Ball recently at the Castilla de Conesa in San Miguel de Salinas.

Almost 200 people attended the event which included a 6 course meal and entertainment by local favourites, the Campoverde Reef Band.

The event raised over 1400 euro for the Branch Appeal which will be used to support those veterans and their families who find themselves facing difficulty here in Spain.

Malcolm and Mary Rusbridge organised the event for the second year running along with Evelyn Harrison and Joe Pesce who managed the raffle.

Eddie Coleman, Jean Heald, Wayne Campbell, Liz Reardon, Skippy Teasdale and Kevin Reardon arriving at the Castillo de Conesa And here’s to a successful evening

The castle really is a superb venue that had everyone in awe as they arrived for the pre ball reception.

There was the taking of photos aplenty as the guests made the most of the resplendent surrounds before moving into the magnificent ballroom for the main part of the evening.

The demand for photographs with our two visiting Chelsea Pensioners, Wayne and Skippy, also seems to increase year on year, but the pair, as ever, were delighted to pose for the camera as people were genuinely excited to have their snap taken with the men in scarlet.

The whole atmosphere was absolutely first class, and was the excellent meal. The Reef Band were their usual exceptional selves, playing music that fitted exactly the mood of the evening, and more importantly, enjoying the evening alongside the guests.

It truly was a memorable evening.

Ball organisers Mary and Malcom Rusbridge

Branch Members Terry Watson, ColIn Holloway, Mo Davin, Dick Conway, Carl Louden and Kevin Reardon

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Benidorm Mayor To n y P e r e z w i t h Wa y n e C a m p b e l l and Skippy Te a s d a l e

Translating the launch into donations lthough there was no formal organisation in Spain until 1990 the first poppy boxes went out on the Costa Blanca in the early 1980’s.

Maj John Lambie, George Outhwaite Snr, the Alicante Vice Consul and Pamela Dawson Tasker were the individuals for launching the initiative which in those early days collected rather less than a million pesetas (£5,500).

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It is not clear when the first formal poppy launch took place on the Costa Blanca as in those early days branches tended just to ‘get on with it’ but in recent years Official launches have been held in Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja and Benidorm.

Indeed the last 5 launches have all been held in the holiday capital of the Costa Blanca and in view of the help and support that The Royal British Legion receives from the mayor, Tony Perez Perez, and his council, and with the excellent suport provided by the local Benidorm branch it is now hard to see it moving anywhere else.

The 2019 launch was held on 18 October in the presence of District Chairman Don Cubbon, Mayor Tony Perez Perez, as well as Ms Kate Green, Overseas Team Lead of the RBL Worldwide, British

Consul, Ms Sara-Jane Morris and Cdr Ed Dunn RN representing the military attaché in Madrid, while Chelsea In-Pensioners Wayne Campbell and Skippy Teasdale once again made the journey from London.

A parade of standards along the Levante beach front, representing the 15 District North branches, was applauded by many hundreds of residents and holidaymakers prior to speeches and the formal launch from a specially erected stage.

Prior to the launch the large crowd had been entertained by the recently formed RBL Concert Band in Spain while a poppy merchandising table, manned by volunteers from the Benidorm branch, raised over 900 euro toward the appeal.

As one of the largest events held by the District every year the Poppy Launch attracts a great deal of media attention both in the English and Spanish press and radio and the goodwill that it brings at such an important time of the year helps to focus the appeal in the minds of the general public which undoubtedly translates into donations both on the day and around the branches during subsequent weeks.

Poppies blooming for Benidorm and District Branch Members of the Benidorm branch started their Poppy Appeal in style. Poppies were blooming on the stall for International Day of Alfas and on the same Sunday at El Cisne market.

Members enjoyed themselves in the party atmosphere at both venues and

by PDT.

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reported a good result in donations to the 2019 appeal.

The Branch was also delighted to be visited on Remembrance Sunday at Ciudad Patricia by Gary Burr (above) of Giving4Giving charity group which has recently celebrated its 5th anniversary.

Hondon Valley Branch 2019 Poppy Appeal Roger Kingham

The big reveal took place at the Christmas Party ach year Hondon Valley reveals, the amount raised, During the Branches Poppy Appeal at the Branch’s Christmas Party. This year the event and the announcement, did not disappoint

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The very creditable, amount of Euro 4,462,54, was revealed to the Branch Members, at the Christmas Party, and was received with a standing ovation and thunderous applause

The Branch Chairman, Neil Pavitt, then thanked the Branch and all members, for their kind generosity The announcement was concluded, by the Chairman, awarding Mr Roger Kingham, (Poppy Appeal Organiser) the 3 year (Board of Trustees), Appreciation Certificate.

The Branch looks forward to 2020, and another, very positive fundraising year, and the move to new and permanent, Branch meeting location

ORIHUELA COSTA TALLIES UP POPPY TOTALS

The Orihuela Costa and District Branch of the RBL has once again raised very nearly 50,000 euro for the annual Poppy Appeal.

Although slightly down on last year’s total the Branch Appeal Coordinator, Eddie Coleman, said that it had been yet another bumper year, largely due to the local golfing fraternity and the magnificent efforts of Mick ‘the Grip’ Reeves who, through a series of ‘Poppy Golf’ tournaments and Society donations, contributed very nearly 11,000 euro to the cause.

The three local Overseas.es (Iceland) outlets were also instrumental in boosting the Costa total with collectors in Cabo Roig, San Javier and Campoverde raising over 5,600 euro.

The branch has also collected at Zenia Boulevard where the great attractions were Branch Members and Royal Hospital Chelsea ‘In Pensioners’ Wayne Campbell and Skippy Teasdale. The book trollies also raised a significant

amount as did the 200 or so ‘Yearboxes’ that are distributed across the area. Once again an amazing achievement by the branch. Well done to everyone involved in achieving yet another magnificent total.

Overseas Supermarkets in support of The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal nce again members of The Royal British Legion were welcomed into branches of Overseas Supermarkets, up and down the region, where volunteers were based for more than 3 weeks, collecting on behalf of the Annual Poppy Appeal, monies that will be used in Spain to help veterans and their families who are in need of their assistance.

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Eddie Coleman, the Poppy Appeal coordinator on the Orihuela Costa said: “The Royal British Legion is grateful to have Overseas Supermarkets ongoing support,” while Diana Wiltshire and Patrice Satur, who were responsible for fundraising at the San Javier store added, “It seems to be that members of the public are now beginning to understand that it is not just the families of the “veterans” from WW2 who need help, but also the servicemen and women from more recent wars, such as the Falklands, Iraq, Afghanistan as well as the troubles in N Ireland.”

And such was the support achieved from the people of San Javier that Diana and her team of volunteers raised euro2786 over the three week period.

Mo Davin and friends were on duty at the new store in Campoverde which contributed euro845 while volunteers at the Orihuela Costa’s most recently opened store, situated at Lomas de Cabo Roig, collected euro1991.

Walter Shatford collecting in San Javier

On Avenida Cortes Valencianas at the Torrevieja store the total donated toward the District North Appeal was euro2189 while a little further along the N-332 in San Fulgencio collectors from the Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch also raised a significant amount At the Benissa store RBL volunteers collected euro435 while 30kms south in Benidorm a very creditable euro328 was raised.

Meanwhile, Customer Services Manager Caroline, from the Company Head Office in Benissa, said “We're proud to welcome the Poppy Appeal collectors from the Royal British Legion to our stores.” “We are saying Thank You to all generations of the Armed Forces community who have served in the knowledge that the donations will assist the Legion in making a difference to the lives of Serving Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families here in Spain, who are in need of our support.”

La Marina store

“A big thank you to all our generous customers and colleagues who have donated toward the 2019 appeal.”

Torrevieja Javea

Staff were in the Haloween mood at Lomas de Cabo Roig

Collecting in Campoverde

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P OP PY-TASTIC 2019

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nce again the golfers from the Costa Blanca and surrounding areas came up trumps in support of the 2019 Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal raising just under ELEVEN THOUSAND EURO In total there were 32 Golf Society events and two charity days held or attended by the Orhuela Costa and District Branch during a frantically busy two months.

I would like to offer my personal thanks to everybody, and to all the Golf Societies, that contributed to this magnificent total.

Mick The Grip.

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ORIHUELA COSTA AND DISTRICT

R B L Spain District North R emembers

lthough the focus of Remembrance was once again at the Cenotaph on Whitehall, London, where the contribution of British and Commonwealth military and civilian servicemen and women involved in the two World Wars and later conflicts was commemorated, there are also many acts and services being carried out across the length and breadth of the Costas.

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The Orihuela Costa and District Branch traditionally hold its commemoration on the closest Sunday to 11th November, ad so it was that, once again, almost 1,000 members of the public turned up on Sunday 10 November, at the small village church of Capilla de las Mil Palmeras, as the Orihuela Costa and District Branch marked their respects for the military and civilian sacrifices made during all conflicts.

The event was especially meaningful for Pastor Keith Brown who was delivering his last Remembrance Service prior to retiring from the post of Branch President.

A standard of the Irish Armed Forces was also carried alongside those representing the RBL, RNA, RMA and RAFA

Prior to the service, the RBL standards, as well as those of many service associations, including RAFA, RNA, the RMA and, for the first time, a contingent of veterans representing the Irish Army, were led to the church by the impressive Torrevieja Pipes and Drums.

Lessons and readings were delivered by Sara Munsterhjelm, José María, Jóse Galiano and Branch Members Graham Rhodes, Walter Shatford, Malcolm Rusbrook and Colin Holloway.

Pastor Keith Brown was delivering his last service Pastor Keith also delivered the first Remembrance service at the small Catholic Church 11 years ago on a makeshift altar made out of cardboard boxes.

In the intervening years he has seen the service grow into the largest and perhaps the most significant Remembrance event in the whole of Spain.

Guests included the British Vice Consul Sara Munsterhjelm who read the first lesson. She was joined by the mayor of Pilar de la Horadada, José María Pérez Sánchez, María Belén Sánchez Tárraga, the Councillor for Overseas Residents, the opposition leader Pilar Samper, along with Orihuela councillor for Health, Jóse Galiano.

There were also moving vocal performances from RBL supporter Stevie Spit who sang his own specially arranged medley of classic songs while American Opera singer Valerie Lynch sang the beautiful ‘Lullaby for a Soldier’ (Arms of the Angels).

The Last Post and Reveille were played by Derk Hayes of the RBL Band while Piper Alan Shand played the lament, The Dark Island. The RBL Band in Spain also provided the musical accompaniment to the hymns, led by their Musical Director David Last.

Ten year old Angelina and her eight year old sister Leticia, carried the peace candle to the altar, after

The mayor of Pilar de la Horadada, José María which they recited the Children’s citation for peace in both English and Spanish.

The service was concluded with the National Anthems of Spain and the United Kingdom after which the ceremony moved out to the International Garden of Remembrance, recently refurbished by the Ayuntamiento of Pilar de la Horadada, where dignitaries and guests laid their wreathes in remembrance after which branch and members of the public added their own poppy crosses in memory of family members and lost colleagues and friends.

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IMAGES: Top left, the British cemetery in Malaga, Btm left: HMA Hugh Elliott reads at a service in Madrid. Centre: Alicante Vice Consul Sara Munsterhjelm reads at the Orihuela Costa and above, the Barcelona Vice Consul Annabelle Sproat at a service in Madremanya.

The British Embassy and Consulates take part in Acts of Remembrance across Spain

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n Sunday 10 and Monday 11 November 2019, the British Embassy in Madrid and Consulates across Spain marked the Armistice by taking part in solemn acts of remembrance.

This year is particularly significant as it marks not only 80 years since the start of the Second World War, but also 70 years since the founding of NATO – an organisation committed to the peaceful resolution of disputes and of which both the UK and Spain are members.

Every year, many UK Nationals attend Remembrance events across Spain. These services and other events are a way for communities to come together to honour those who served and ensure that their sacrifices

are never forgotten.

HMA Hugh Elliott said: “I am proud to wear the poppy – as a symbol not only of remembrance, but of hope for a peaceful future. In every act of remembrance, we honour the memory of the fallen and pledge to care for the living.

I am grateful that so many Embassy and Consulate staff have taken part in events right across Spain and that the British communities here hold services of remembrance each year.

It is incredibly important that we continue to commemorate the fallen and reflect on the importance of peace.”

Staff representing the Embassy and Consulates took part in many Remembrance Sunday services across Spain, including

Alicante Branch The Alicante Branch of TRBL held it's Remembrance Service in The International Club in El Campello on Sunday 10th November 2019. Our Deputy Standard Bearer & Chairman (Jack Kemp) had just made it back in time from attending the Festival of Remembrance at The Royal Albert Hall on the previous day.

The club television was broadcasting the scenes from the Cenotaph, the Exhortation was read by the Branch Secretary Mr Ivan Beckett, which was followed by the Last Post played by Mr John Connolly, Flanders Fields

by Mr Ian Price PAO, Reveille again by John, "What is Remembrance" by Mr Jack Kemp the Branch Chairman and lastly but so emotionally The Kohima Epitaph which was conducted by Mr Ian Anderson who lost a close family member in Afghanistan.

HMA Hugh Elliott reading at the Remembrance service at St George’s Church, Madrid, alongside Consul Sarah-Jane Morris, the Defence Attaché Captain Ian Clarke and members of the British armed forces.

Elsewhere, Consul General Lloyd Milen gave a reading at a service in Ibiza; Consul Charmaine Arbouin laid a wreath at the English cemetery in Malaga and Tenerife Vice Consul Helen Keating read the Act of Commitment and laid a wreath in the sea at Westhaven Bay, Tenerife, alongside representatives of the Royal British Legion; Alicante Vice Consul Sara Munsterhjelm gave a reading in Orihuela Costa and Barcelona Vice Consul laid a wreath at the service in Madremanya.

THE NATIONAL SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE was originally conceived as a commemoration of the war dead of the First World War but after the Second World War the scope of the ceremony was extended to focus on the nation’s dead of both World Wars, and in 1980 it was widened once again to extend the remembrance to all who have suffered and died in conflict in the service of their country, and all those who mourn and those who are still fighting for peace and freedom even now.

It is also about all of us learning from the past and resolving to make the world a better place in which to live, and with so many more children becoming involved in the event here on the Costa Blanca we are now rather more assured that the future of remembrance is in increasingly safe hands.

Hondón Valley Remembrance Service The village Catholic Church was full for the Hondón de los Frailes Annual Remembrance Service.

Father Don Witts officiated and his address was very relevant to Remembrance and the 2 minute silence.

We were honoured to have Elizabeth Bell MBE, Vice Consul from the British Consulate in Alicante attending, along with Sr Eleuterio García, Alcalde of Hondón de los Frailes (who read the lesson in Spanish), Sra Carmen Selles, Alcaldesa of Hondón de las Nieves and Juan de Dios Navarro from the Diputación de Alicante.

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Once again the Corro-Parroquial from La Romana sang Spanish hymns including a rendition of “We will Remember Them” especially written and arranged for the Service. Former Branch President Peter Broadbent told the congregation about his and his wife’s Grandfathers and their involvement in World War I. A very poignant tribute to them and all those who served their country then and since.

Following the Service the congregation paraded to the garden of the Ayuntamiento where wreaths, flowers and poppy crosses were laid.

The Hondón Valley Branch would like to thank all those who attended the Service marking this very special day in the Legion calendar.

The Branch meets at the Irish Bar in Hondón de los Frailes. We have a great social time planned and welcome anyone who would like to come along.

More information can be obtained from the Secretary by email on: hondonvalley.secretary@rbl.community Web: www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/hondon-valley

Pinoso Annual Remembrance Day 2019 The Pinoso Branch held our annual Remembrance Day service at the Parochial Church of St Peter Apostle on the Sunday.

The service was preceded by a parade through the town of members and guests, the ladies of the Pinoso Branch of the Trefoil Guild, the Mayor of Pinoso, Lazaró Azorín Salar and Town Councillors, and led through the streets to the Church by the town band, the Union Lyrica Pinosense.

The service was held in both languages, Mary Walker, leader of the Pinoso Vinyard Christian Fellowship officiating on behalf of the branch and recently appointed parish priest, Fr Harold Mauricio who commented that it was a new experience for him, and that

he was looking forward to doing it again next year.

The lessons, in Spanish and English, were read by Branch members and the Mayor. We were also very fortunate in having ex bandsman Les Barrett once again coming from the UK to take part in the service and play the Last Post and the Reveille, and also in having with us Linda Moore of “Women Aglow”, Torrevieja, joining us to read her very moving poem “Two Soldiers”.

The Mayor gave an address at the close of the service in which he thanked the British Community for the social and cultural integration that we have made into the daily life of Pinoso, and the pleasure that he has in supporting our customs and traditions.

Following the service the annual Remembrance Day lunch was held at the Bar Restaurant Mesón Tonet with some 60 members and guests attending.

JAVEA BRANCH OF THE RBL he Javea Branch held its traditional Service of Remembrance in the Fishermen's Church in Javea Port on Sunday 10th November after which it supported the Service of Remembrance in Moraira on Monday 11th November.

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As usual, both churches were completely full with those wishing to remember The Fallen during the moving services led by Father Marcus Roncetti.

The following day saw the branch move on to a second service at the Nuestra Senora de los Desamparados church in Moirara where Fr. Marcus officiated once again along with Fr. Jim of the Costa Blanca Anglican Chaplaincy and where the hymns were provided by members of the Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir.

The Moirara service was organised by Laura Hillstead who says that she was inspired by the stories told to her about WW2 by her Grandfather Phillip.

REMEMBERING IN BENIDORM n Benidorm young and old stood united alongside each other at the Ciudad Patricia where member Lenny Leonard had the honour of carrying the Branch Standard while Chairman Jim Thompson officiated.

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A two-minute silence was held at 11am followed by readings from Pat Bagnall, Maggie Slane, Francis Sleep and Pamela Dawson Tasker.

Following the service a wreath was laid in the garden after which meny of the members headed down to The Showboat for lunch and a fundraiser in aid of the Poppy Appeal.

RBL GANDÍA REMEMBRANCE Once again the RBL Gandía Remembrance event, held in Barx Ajuntament, was very well supported with over 80 people attending. Wreaths and Cross's were laid and there were moving readings by 3 branch members followed by a lighter ending, everyone joined in singing popular songs from the WW2 era. 45 people then went on to have lunch.

WHO WE ARE …

HERE IN SPAIN …

The Royal British Legion provides financial, social and emotional support to millions who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces and their dependents.

The Legion in Spain – District North operates from the French border to Baza in Andalucía – an area larger than the size of the UK!

We are the UK’s largest Armed Forces charity, with 235,000 members, 110,000 volunteers and a network of partners and charities; helping us give support wherever and whenever it’s needed.

Founded in 1921, the Legion is not just about those who fought in the two World Wars of the last century, but also those involved in the many conflicts since 1945 – those still fighting for the freedom we enjoy today.

We are also the Nation’s custodian of Remembrance, we remember those who lost their lives on active service in all conflicts; from the beginning of the First World War right up to the present day.

We also remember all those who have served and their families ensuring their sacrifice in never forgotten. We are responsible for the Two Minute Silence on Remembrance Sunday and 11th November, bringing Remembrance into the National calendar.

We also organise the annual Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall, and assist with the march past at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday.

WHAT WE DO …

The Legion is the major voice for the Armed Forces Community throughout the year.

We campaign and lobby on a wide range of issues, including mental health, housing and homelessness, employment, community and adult care, skills development and debt advice.

Our aim is to continuously improve the assistance and support provided for veterans and their dependents of all ages. The Legion spends around £1.3 m. each week helping our beneficiaries.

Our 16 Branches and 2 Sub Branches offer comradeship to members as well as social activities and with a network of hardworking Caseworkers and Branch Community Support members, we deliver a service to our beneficiaries’ resident in the area.

Enquiries are many and varied. The Legion also coordinates with other Armed Forces charities to give the best possible service to our beneficiaries.

We are always looking for people to become Caseworkers – for further information please contact the District Community Support Co-Ordinator.

The District has 16 Branches and 1 sub Branch. All contacts are listed below.

More information can be obtained on the following website: www.britishlegion.org.uk/counties/spain-north Please remember you do not need an Armed Forces background to attend and take part in any of the social activities and meetings arranged by any of our Legion Branches.

District Chairman: Mr Donald Cubbon Email: spainnorth.chairman@rbl.community

ALBOX - BR3564 Meets on the third Thursday of each month at La Parilla, Plaza Mayor in Albox at 11.00am and for a coffee morning at the same venue on the first Thursday of each month, also at 11.00am

JAVEA - BR3457 Meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at Paris 24 Tennis Club, Avenida Paris 24, Javea Arenal at 11.30am (except during July and August).

Chairman: Secretary:

Chairman Secretary

Filip Ostrowski E: albox.chairman@rbl.community Sarah Edkins E: albox.secretary@rbl.community ***** ALICANTE - BR3475 Meets on 1st Thursday of even numbered months at the International Club El Campello, and odd numbered months at the Casa Cultura Castalla at 12.30pm Chairman: Secretary:

Jack Kemp E: alicante.chairman@rbl.community Mr Ivan Beckett E: alicante.secretary@rbl.community ***** ALTIPLANO - BR4028 Meets on the 3rd Saturday of each month in the Venta del Peral Restaurant in Cullar Chairman: Secretary:

Ms Esther Navarro E: altiplano.chairman@rbl.community Ms Diane Bryant E: altiplano.secretary@rbl.community ***** BENIDOLEIG - BR3482 This Branch is now a Sub-Branch of Javea Branch. For more information, please contact javea.rbl.secretary@gmail.com ***** BENIDORM & DISTRICT - BR3489 Meets on the third Friday of the month in the social & restaurant area of Ciudad Patricia Residencia, Calle Rumania, Benidorm at 11.00am Chairman: Secretary

Jim Thomson E: jithomson@btinternet.com Mrs Maggie Slane E: benidorm.secretary@rbl.community ***** CALPE - BR 3465 Meets every Friday at Dracula's Restaurant, Calpe Port at 11.00am Chairman Secretary

Mr Carl Gullis E: judygullis72@gmail.com Yvonne Woodham E: yvonne.woodham@live.co.uk ***** GANDIA AND DISTRICT - BR3560 Meets on the first Wednesday of each month in Bar El Pelut in the Old Town of Oliva at 12 noon.

Chairman Secretary

Mr John Lord E: gandia.chairman@rbl.community Mr Mark Walden E: gandia.secretary@rbl.community ***** GRAN ALACANT & LA MARINA - BR3606 Meets on the first Monday of each month at LoungeD, Plaza Mayor (Masa Square) Calle Holanda 9, Gran Alacant at 6.00 PM. Chairman Secretary

Mr Paul Kane E: granalacant.chairman@rbl.community Mr Terry Lacey E: granalacant.secretary@rbl.community ***** HONDร N VALLEY - BR3577 Meets on the third Tuesday of each month at the Irish Bar in Hondรณn de las Frailes - 7.00pm for 7.30pm.

Chairman Secretary

Mr Neil Pavitt E: hondonvalley.chairman@rbl.community Mr Christopher Wyatt E: hondonvalley.secretary@rbl.community

District Secretary: Vacant Email: spainnorth.secretary@rbl.community District Community Support Enquiries - Tel: 676 451 780 Email: spainnorth.communitysupport@rbl.community

Mr Anthony Edmunds E: javea.chairman@rbl.community Mrs Jacky Cleary E: javea.rbl.secretary@gmail.com ***** MOJACAR - BR3485 Meets on first and third Thursday of each month at the Artisan Centre, at 11.00am Chairman Mr Andrew Richardson E: mojacar.chairman@rblcommunity Secretary Mrs Christine White E: mojacar.secretary@rblcommunity ***** MURCIA - BR3710 Meets on the 3rd or 4th Thursday of even months at La Tapizzeria de Chicho, Avenida Ciudad de Mataro 12, Cehegin.

Chairman Secretary

Carl Thomas E: murcia.chairman@rbl.community Mrs Lynn Symonds E: murcia.secretary@rbl.community ***** ORIHUELA COSTA & DISTRICT - BR3600 Meet at Olympia Restaurant, Mil Palmeras on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7.00pm for 7.30pm.

Chairman Secretary

Mr Kevin Reardon E: orihuelacosta.chairman@rbl.community Mrs Jean Heald E: orihuelacosta.secretary@rbl.community ***** PINOSO - BR3614 Meet on the last Tuesday of each month at Meson Tonet, Pinoso, 7.30pm Chairman Secretary

Mr Colin Hindmarsh E: pinoso.chairman@rbl.community Sara Thackway E:pinoso.secretary@rbl.community ***** TORREVIEJA - BR3456 Meets on the second Friday of each month at Casa Ventura, La Siesta, Torrevieja at 6.30pm for 7.00pm Chairman Secretary

Mrs Diana Bridle E:torrevieja.chairman@rbl.community Mrs Pam Wilding E:torrevieja.secretary@rbl.community ***** LA VAL D'ALBAIDA - BR3597 Meets at 12.30pm on the second Wednesday of January, April, July and October at Wok Asiatico, El Pilar, Ontinyent at 12.30pm Chairman Secretary

Mr E. Tuvey E: valdalbaida.chairman@rbl.community Mrs Corinne Cornforth E: valdalbaida.secretary@rbl.community ***** ZURGENA & DISTRICT - BR Meets on the first Thursday of each month at The Heathers Bar and Restaurant, La Alfoquia, Zurgena at 11.00am Chairman Mr Dennis Hibbert E: zurgena.chairman@rbl.community Secretary Tony Bignell E: zurgena.secretary@rbl.community