THE Leigh Royal British Legion branch is busy working together to support the community and it has the backing of the town's former MP.

The group was being run for 11 years by Bob Watson on his own until last year when members stepped in to help him with his duties.

Former Sgt Major of the Royal Regiment Fuseliers Howard Lycett, who joined the legion last year, was one of them.

He was made chairman of the organisation last month.

Howard, 57, from Leigh, who served in Kosovo and Bosnia, said: "We are looking to help our community.

"We are supporting people such as those who have mental health issues.

"We are looking to build bridges with other groups and always wanting to be inclusive.

"It is about building trust with those who need help."

As well as working with organisations such as Wigan Council and the police, the branch have been donating items for Atherton and Leigh Foodbank

They were also taking part in a bucket collection at the Leigh Centurions and Dewsbury game on Sunday collecting for the cause.

Ands earlier this month, the group had a surprise for Greater Manchester mayor and former Leigh MP Andy Burnham.

He was invited to Leigh Town Hall by the organisation but was not told the full details of the event.

Much to his delight Mr Burnham was made honorary president of the branch on the day and presented with a specially-made framed emblem.

The emblem blends the Royal British Legion badge with the Leigh coat of arms.

Howard added: "Andy is a very strong supporter of the armed forces.

"It is a position that is really close to his heart. He was saying that he is working to get organisations to come together to help the armed forces community."

Howard also reserved praise for the Tesco Extra store at The Loom which allows the branch to use its community room for meetings.

There are around 60 members signed up to the branch.

For more information or for details about signing up contact 01942 513780.