A new Royal British Legion (RBL) chairman has been elected – securing the branch’s future.

Last month we reported how there were fears the Island could be left without a group after its former chairman was forced to stand down due to ill health.

The Minster branch shut at the end of last year due to lack of support and Queenborough has amalgamated with the Sheerness group, but if a chairman could not be found to lead it, it meant there would be no branch at all and therefore no Remembrance Day parade.

After an appeal in the Times Guardian, Sheppey Coastguard officer Ian Goodwin put his name forward for the position and he was voted in at a meeting on Monday night.

It took place at the Co-op Sports and Social Club in St George’s Avenue, Sheerness, and 54-year-old Mr Goodwin had to stand up and tell the group about himself, before he was unanimously accepted.

Sheerness RBL secretary Maureen Vaughan said: “The meeting went wonderfully.

“I think we’ve got a good ’un with Ian.

“It means the branch can now continue as strong as ever.”

Mr Goodwin, of Marine Parade, Sheerness, said he put himself forward as he couldn’t stand to see the branch shut.

“I would be very disappointed if the branch closed,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to it – it’s a new challenge for me.”

Meanwhile, it has been announced that the 2012 Poppy Appeal raised almost £14,000 – beating the previous year’s total.

Altogether, £13,899.22 was raised during the two-week period the RBL is able to collect money.

Organiser of the Sheerness collection Julie Austin-Williamson thanked everyone who donated and all the volunteers.

She also thanked Tesco and Aldi in Sheerness for allowing volunteers to collect at the stores.

The money will be used to help all generations of the armed forces and their families.

• For any information about the RBL or the Sheerness Poppy Appeal, ring Miss Austin-Williamson on 07929 866010.