THE Malmesbury branch of the Royal British Legion is appealing for new members before its meeting on January 10.

The branch has a committee of 14 people, as well as other members, but its number has dwindled as people have got older.

Ian Mace, 56, from Corston, the assistant secretary, said new, younger members, are needed.

"Most of our members are in their 70s or 80s, with very few of 50 or below," said Mr Mace, who is one of two members, along with Tony Mantle, who are not ex-serviceman.

"We need another generation to come through so we can carry on with the work.

"Serviceman leave the Army, Navy or Air Force in their 20s but not many seem to be coming into the British Legion in Malmesbury."

The branch committee meets on the first Friday of each month at The Red Bull Inn, Sherston.

Its next general meeting is in the town hall will be on January 10 at 7.30pm.

After that, general meetings are being held on April 11 and August 15, followed by the annual meeting next November.

"We remember those who sacrificed their lives and the money we raise goes to help the widows who have been left behind," added Mr Mace.

The branch however, can look forward to extensive national publicity next year.

The Queen's visit to Malmesbury, during which she signed photographs of herself and Prince Philip, commissioned by the branch, is to be featured in the national Royal British Legion magazine.

The magazine, called Legion, wants to feature the visit in an issue coming out in June or July.