THE hard work of volunteers who provide support to current and ex-members of the Armed Services, has been recognised at an annual meeting.

The Royal British Legion held its county conference at Longmeadow Hall, Headcorn, on Saturday.

National chairman of the RBL Peter Cleminson and the Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Richard Ash, presented awards including the John Partridge Shield for the standard bearer showing the most progress. The shield went to Duncan Sage, from Tunbridge Wells.

New county chairman Steve Woolford from Whitstable, who won the Charles Stevens trophy for raising the most money during the poppy walk, said the event was a success.

Other award winners

The Mungeam Cup for the standard bearer competition winner - Richard Bunyan, from Sevenoaks.

The 1945 to 1995 anniversary shield for the standard bearer competition runner- up - John Walker, from Paddock Wood.

The Penfold Salver Trophy for the group showing the largest membership increase - Group 6 which includes Maidstone, Sutton Valence, Shepway and Park Wood area branches.

The Tom Asprey Cup for the branch raising the most money on the poppy walk - the Smarden branch and Peter Cooper.