A VILLAGE branch of the Royal British Legion has scooped five awards at a prestigious county conference. Both the men s and women s groups of the Barrington branch received recognition and praise for their on-going commitment to the organisation. The me

A VILLAGE branch of the Royal British Legion has scooped five awards at a prestigious county conference.

Both the men's and women's groups of the Barrington branch received recognition and praise for their on-going commitment to the organisation.

The men's group won awards for their efficiency and high membership, as well as the honour of raising the most money per head of population through selling poppies.

The women's group won their awards for attracting and retaining members.

Branch chairman Richard Long said: "For such a small branch to win five trophies is a tremendous achievement.

"Everyone has worked really hard for this success. It's been a real team effort."

Barrington is a village with a population of less than 900, so the Gautrey Trophy received for the branch's poppy fundraising is even more remarkable.

Appeal organiser Barbara Cobb said: "We wouldn't have won this award if it wasn't for the generous donations from people in the village. Their support has been unbelievable.

"Our success means we have to keep up the good work for another year - there are still a lot of our lads at war who need our help."

Barbara, whose son died in the forces, said the Royal British Legion was about veterans and today's soldiers.

She added: "I feel like I am carrying on my son's work.

"The organisation means an awful lot to me - I think he would be proud."

The branch celebrated its success outside Barrington Church.

The event was also attended by one of the original branch members, 87-year-old Ron Jude, who served in the Middle East.

Mr Jude said: "This has been a fantastic day. The Royal British Legion is very important to me and so many others.