Our Blog

Nel Shearman: A Land Girl and a generation who answered the call

Branch members recently visited St Luke’s Care Home in Calverley to meet 102-year-old Nel Shearman, who served with the Women’s Land Army during the Second World War. The visit offered a valuable opportunity to hear Nel’s story while also reflecting on the wider contribution made by millions of women across farming, industry, the Armed Forces and the Home Front during Britain’s wartime effort.

A visit to Hangar 42 Spitfire visitor centre, Blackpool

A group of 12 branch members recently visited Hangar 42 Spitfire Visitor Centre, following a trip first planned after an initial visit in 2025. The day offered a fascinating insight into the aircraft and systems that shaped the Battle of Britain, including the Dowding System, alongside the chance to explore an impressive collection of historic aircraft up close.

Family Connection – Remembering Private John Ashe

The story of Private John Ashe, who died in Cyprus on 28 May 1956 aged just 18, has recently been rediscovered through a family connection within our branch. John, of the 1st Battalion King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, was fatally wounded during an ambush near Polis during the Cyprus Emergency. His story reminds us how the sacrifices of that conflict still echo through families and communities today.

First Veterans Café at Hutton Manor Care Home proves a roaring success

The first Veterans Café at Hutton Manor Care Home has been hailed a success, with more than 20 veterans and members of the Armed Forces community attending the launch event. The monthly gathering aims to bring veterans together for conversation, camaraderie and support.

Supporting our veterans through wellbeing visits

Two branch members recently carried out wellbeing visits to a veteran living with dementia in a Pudsey care home. Over a cuppa, stories of service, community and shared memories brought connection, clarity and comfort – a simple reminder that no veteran should feel forgotten.

Veterans café launching at Hutton Manor Care Home

On Saturday 7 March 2026, Hutton Manor Care Home will launch a new monthly Veterans Café, created in partnership with our Pudsey & Farsley Royal British Legion branch. This article shares what the café is, who it is for, and how it aims to bring veterans together for conversation, companionship and support.

Remembering the Hartshead Moor services bombing

Next Sunday marks the commemoration of the Hartshead Moor Services bombing, a tragic event in 1974 that claimed the lives of soldiers, civilians and children. This article reflects on what happened, why it matters, and how we continue to remember those lost.

The Christmas truce of 1914: Humanity, hope and the spirit of remembrance

Looking back at remembrance 2025

As another remembrance period comes to an end, we look back with pride at how our community came together across Pudsey, Farsley and Calverley. From the Poppy Appeal to the services themselves, it’s been a month of reflection, unity and heartfelt gratitude.