THE chairman of Grays Thurrock Royal British Legion branch paid tribute to the many behind the scenes members and supporters of the local Legion and those who work to make the RBL's Poppy Appeal such a success in the area.

And he also paid tribute to stalwart members who have passed away in the last year.

Rod Oakley, who earlier in the week performed as part of the band Mondospike to rasie funds for the appeal at a gig at Tyrells Hall CLub, was speaking at a reception for those wo attended this morning's (Sunday, 13 November) Remembrance Service at the Grays War Memorial on the High Street.

Among those in attendance this morning were borough MP Jackie Doyle-Price, Mayor Cllr James Halden and many local councillors as well as representatives of many organisations in the area.

Grays Town Band performed at the service and a parade to and from the venue which included youth and local service organisations was led by the Corringham-based Sutherland Pipes and Drums.

Civic dignitaries and service representatives at today's service in Grays.

The Legion branch were also prominent at a short service on Friday to matk the signing of the armistice at 11am on 11 November 1918.