A LAST-DITCH attempt to save the Highcliffe branch of the Royal British Legion has been launched.

Currently it has no committee and will close if members of the public don't come forward to help.

The branch has just 34 members with an average age of more than 80-years-old.

Now Ian Jarvis, Dorset County Chairman, has urged more people to help keep the service alive.

The branch does not have premises of its own but delivers some of the many services provided by the charity in the area.

Mr Jarvis told the Daily Echo: "The members of the Highcliffe branch are dedicated and are very helpful with the annual Poppy Appeal.

"However, we have been unable to form a committee and if we can't do so then the branch will have to close."

He urged anyone interested in getting involved to attend a meeting on April 29 at the Methodist Church Hall in Lymington Road.

Posters have been circulated in the area which display a poppy and the words "Don't Just Wear One. People of Highcliffe - make a difference."

Members of the public have been urged to arrive from 2pm for a 2.30pm start.

The Royal British Legion, established in 1921, supports servicemen and women, veterans and their families.

Members do not have to be involved in the services but need to support them.

Mr Jarvis said: "Ideally we are looking for people who have a bit of time on their hands to organise fund raising events and other activities.

"It is important to have a branch in the area to support people locally. Sometime people need a bit of support in the home, others just need a phone call every now and again.

"The services are being stretched further and further so it is important that we keep all branches open."