British Legion members looking to recruit new members are adamant it is not just a club for old soldiers.

The Royal British Legion, in Shenley Road, Borehamwood, provides help and raises money for ex-servicemen and women and their families.

But membership is dwindling and the club is looking for new members.

This year, the Legion has organised a range of events to drum up support and is encouraging more people to get involved.

Branch chairman Fred Grimes is hoping to reach out to the younger generation.

He said: “Talking to people in the town, there is a common misconception that this place is full of old soldiers who were in the war years ago, but that’s not the case.

“You don’t even have to be in the armed forces to be a member. Anyone over 18 is welcome to join, young or old.”

So far the Legion has raised more than £30,000 for the Poppy Appeal, but organiser Carol Denbigh says she hopes to raise even more over the next few months.

Club chairman Roger Bartropp described the club’s work as “a labour of love”.

On Saturday, May 9 the legion will hold a picnic in Woodcock Hill, Borehamwood, in conjunction with Borehamwood Town Council to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.

Picnic-goers can enjoy stalls, snacks, and a competition between the air, army and navy cadets to raise money for the Poppy Appeal.

The day will end with a VE Day dance and supper at the club itself, complete with 1940s-style entertainment and music.

Mr Grimes said: “We want to encourage members of the public to come and have a good night at the club and see what we do here so they might think about joining.

“The event will be a form of remembrance but will also spread word of the Legion and what we do.”

Other events include a pensioners’ party on May 27, a Fantasia fun night for charity on April 17, and a St George’s evening complete with a Cockney entertainer and a fish and chip supper.

VE Day dance tickets for the public will go on sale from next month in Morrisons, in Stirling Corner, Borehamwood on April 18, 28, 29 and 30 and in Tesco, in Shenley Road, on Saturday, March 25.

For more information visit www.borehamwood-rbl-club.co.uk/