It’s all change for RBL Blyth Branch

The 7th AGM of the RBL Blyth Branch took place in October 2025 and saw some big changes to the committee, including a change of Chairman.  Outgoing Chairman Gail Armstrong and Branch Secretary Ann Dobson reformed the branch in 2018 after the original branch folded.  Gail is a veteran of the Royal Navy and Ann’s son was serving in the Army at that time. They both felt Blyth needed a branch to support veterans, those currently serving and their families.  Gail was instrumental in reforming the branch and, thanks to her dedication and leadership, the branch has grown over the years and has a very active committee and membership.

After joining the committee as Youth and Events Coordinator in January 2024 and then a stint as Vice Chairman, Malcolm Redford put himself forward for election as Gail’s replacement and was successfully elected.  Although not having any military service himself, Malcolm has a strong desire to give back to our community and particularly our veterans.  He said “I have met many remarkable individuals in my short time with the branch.  Every new conversation is a source of inspiration, filled with stories of service, support and the positive impact our branch has on local veterans.  My vision for the branch is to uphold the values of the Royal British Legion, to continue delivering vital support to veterans and maintain our role as custodians of remembrance in Blyth. I am also committed to strengthening our relationships with local cadet forces, schools and youth and community organisations, as well as continuing our close partnership with Blyth Town Council in supporting civic events and remembrance ceremonies. I am confident that the Blyth Branch will continue to grow, evolve, and serve with pride, ensuring that remembrance, respect and community remain at the heart of everything we do.”

Long serving branch member John Sewell was elected Vice Chairman. John previously

served as branch membership secretary, providing him with a thorough understanding
of the committee's operations. He is an engaged member who regularly participates in
community events, representing the branch at its stall and interacting with members of
the public. Additionally, John volunteers at the Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade
Watchhouse Museum, where he delivers presentations and guided tours featuring early
photography, documents, paintings, and artefacts connected to the Tynemouth
Volunteer Life Brigade

The branch is delighted the new Reverend of St Cuthbert’s Church, Reverend Chris Webb, also accepted the branch’s invitation to become Branch Chaplain.  Chris has very recently moved to Blyth from Leicester, and we are very pleased to have him on board.

Malcolm’s first official duty as Chairman was overseeing this year’s Remembrance events.  Although a daunting task the events ran smoothly thanks to the invaluable support of previous Chairman and Blyth Town Council’s Events Coordinator.  Reverand Chris Webb did a great job of leading his first service and we were supported by St Cuthbert’s choir.

The branch and Blyth Town Council would like to thank the public for their understanding and support of the changes made to the management of the parade and public areas at the cenotaph while the honour guard and parade took their places.  As always, there was a remarkable turnout.  We are immensely proud of the dedication shown by our members, volunteers, partners and the wider Blyth community.  The warmth, respect, and unity demonstrated throughout this year’s Remembrance events are a powerful reminder of the values that bind us together. With this spirit of collaboration, we will continue to honour our veterans, support those in need, and strengthen the bonds across our town. It is always very humbling to see those proudly wearing the medals attained for their own service and to see family members wearing their relative’s medals.

Committee and branch volunteers are actively involved in local community events, sharing information about the branch and resources available for veterans, their families and active service members who may need support. We also host a weekly breakfast club at Wetherspoons and drop-in sessions at Blyth Library and monthly social gatherings where members and friends come together for quizzes, games, conversation, and plenty of laughter.  For further information please email blyth.secretary@rbl.community

 

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