February sees the start of the planning for this year's Poppy Appeal and the ordering of wreaths. 

Looking back over previous years, the local Royal British Legion expects to be ordering in the region of 60 wreaths and nearly 70 poppy sprays. 

However while the Midsomer and Norton RBL goes from strength to strength, they continue to run with the same number of active members.

The chairman said: " We desperately need new people who are willing to give up just a small amount of time. If you wish to help and you don't need to join the RBL, please get in touch with me via my email: [email protected]  " The branch holds a monthly meeting on the fourth Monday of the month at 19:30.  

Last year the local branch collected an incredible £20,892.02 * from its Poppy Appeal.

And there is now a new counselling service set up for anyone who served in Afghanistan, and thinks they need to talk to someone after recent events. You just need to call the general Contact Centre number:  0808 802 8080 

• (Waiting for final ratification from the RBL)