Blandford RBL chairman said stealing from the RBL is "about as low as you can go" Pictures: Terry Clarkson

More than £1,000 raised after Blandford RBL branch broken into

Tait ap EllisMay 27, 20250 Comment0

THE Blandford community has responded in force after thieves broke into the Royal British Legion (RBL) building, with medals reported as stolen and the premises trashed.

Dorset Police said the Poppy Stables at the site on Church Lane were reportedly broken into sometime between 1pm on Monday (May 12) and 12pm on Wednesday (May 14).

Three First World War medals and £40 worth of donations were reportedly stolen, and chairman Terry Clarkson said the meeting room – which serves as a safe space for members to meet with veterans and their families who need support – was trashed following the break-in.

He said it looks like a knife was taken to the upholstery of a settee and armchair, with these now being “completely unusable”.

Now, the Blandford community has raised £1,235 to help the Legion make repairs.

Two GoFundMe’s were set up in response to the damage, one by Steven Boyle and another by Owain Hughes at Damory Garage.

Damory Grange said: “The Legion is a cornerstone of support for local veterans and a vital part of our town’s identity. We want to do our part to help them recover.

“We’re starting this fundraiser to help replace what was lost, repair the damage, and get the Legion back on its feet. All funds raised will go directly to the Blandford Forum branch.”

Both fundraisers are now closed.

Steven Boyle said: “During my time in Blandford, I fostered close relations with the RBL and I am passionate about giving them some much-needed assistance during this time.

“The RBL do amazing work for our serving soldiers, reserves and veterans and they deserve our support during this difficult time.”

Luckily, Terry Clarkson said the stolen medals have now been recovered and in time will be remounted and put back on display.

He said: “I would just like to express on behalf of the branch my deepest thanks to all who have donated money, offered us replacement furniture, or offered to help clean up the mess.

“It has truly been humbling and a thank you for all the supportive comments both on social media and face to face it really does mean a great deal to us at Blandford RBL.”