The former chairman of the Island’s Royal British Legion (RBL) has been rewarded for his sterling service.

Tom Redman, 80, stood down at the end of last year due to ill health after serving for 15 years.

There had been fears Sheppey could be left without a branch as Minster shut last year due to lack of support and Queenborough amalgamated with the Sheerness group, which couldn’t run without someone to lead it.

After an appeal in the Times Guardian, Sheppey Coastguard officer Ian Goodwin volunteered and was voted in in March.

Mr Redman was presented with a framed certificate and engraved ornament by his replacement at the Co-op Sports and Social Club, Sheerness. The Halfway resident had been an active member of the RBL for many years before being elected chairman in 1997. He will still be a member. He served for 24 years in the Royal Navy followed by 10 years as the north Kent sector manager for HM Coastguard.

Mr Goodwin said during his predecessor’s chairmanship, member numbers increased. He said: “He was instrumental in forming new relationships with youth organisations and the public. It’s a fitting tribute to a man who put in a lot of time and effort. We were delighted to thank him for all his help for the Royal British Legion.

“County representative Richard Cast also extended his thanks for Mr Redman’s sterling services in ensuring the Sheerness branch remained a viable and efficient organisation.”

The RBL helps serving members of the armed forces, veterans and their families and organise the Poppy Appeal. You do not need to be ex-forces to join.