Indeed, they laboured under the misconception that we were 'old people doing nothing but prance around monuments, waving flags and rattling cans'. At first I found this quite amusing, but coming from ex-soldiers of our county regiment I realised that if this is what some of the old guard think of us, what is the public's perception?
I explained at great lengths that our constitution provides the spirit of comradeship within the one common interest (love or hate it!), the county regiment.
We are committed to the welfare of our members, and social activities include monthly meetings, outings and regular dinner evenings. We are in the process of planning Christmas activities and events, which will be of interest to both members and their wives or partners.
It is ultimately up to the members to decide which activities they would like to undertake; those who wish to partake in ceremonial duties do so with genuine pride and receive our utmost support.
We could not survive without some form of fundraising where we try to present ourselves and our regiment with dignity and pride, and to make local people aware of how our soldiers are meeting the challenges they face on our nation's behalf.
In this respect we greatly value the support of the public.
Details on membership can be obtained from myself, Colin Briggs, on 01205 760086 (evenings), or from chairman Trevor Snell on 01733 203606.


COLIN BRIGGS
Vice-chairman of the Spalding with Boston Branch of the Royal Lincolnshire and Royal Anglian Regimental Association (Poachers)