IT was a momentous occasion for Launceston as the new Edymead Hall was opened on Armed Forces Day.

The hall, run by the Edymead Trust, will be the new home of Launceston’s Royal British Legion (RBL).

A special opening event was held on Saturday, June 24, following the traditional gathering at the Castle for the flag raising.

Before the flag was run up, Launceston Town Crier Rob Tremain directed the people of Launceston to gaze up at the Castle top to witness the return of this important event.

Anne Brown of Launceston Town Band ably played the Last Post.

All were then invited to attend the opening event at the new Edymead Hall in Tower Street.

Providing some background, Launceston RBL chairman Paul Oliver, MBE, said: “In 1921, the people of Launceston gifted a building to be used by veterans of the Great War to gather and meet. In 1946, the Royal British Legion was invited to coordinate this activity on the town’s behalf. This year, in keeping with the town’s intent, and on behalf of the Royal British Legion and all Armed Forces veterans, the Edymead Trust purchased the latest iteration in Tower Street, on the site of the former Salvation Army building.”

To mark the occasion,  Launceston branch President John Knights and Mayor of Launceston Cllr Helen Bailey cut a ribbon and a beautifully decorated cake.

The branch’s youth members held a bake sale, while Shirley Perryman and Pam Townsend ably organised teas, coffees and a large raffle.

By the end of the morning, an impressive £347.50 was raised for branch funds.

It is hoped the new Edymead Hall will become a space for other local groups to utilise and provide a long future for the town’s RBL branch.