A Llanidloes woman says it is an “absolute honour” to receive one of the Royal British Legion’s highest accolade for a lifetime of service.

Trudy Davies joined the Llanidloes Branch of the Women's Royal British Legion when she was 16 years old and has been an active member as Standard Bearer for more than 40 years.

Described as the “face” of the Royal British Legion in the Llanidloes area, she was presented with the Gold Badge for meritorious and conspicuous service.

Llanidloes Branch president Pat Thomas said “She is the most dedicated person I know, and I can’t think of anyone who deserves this very special and rarely given out award.”

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Since the men's branch closed more than 25 years ago, Mrs Davies has led the annual Remembrance Sunday parade. Her drive was evident when the branch organised a 'Turn the Town Red' event to mark 100 years since the end of the First World Wart, including the installation of two memorial benches and planting a tree for every person named on the town's war memorial.

Mrs Davies is also a successful local businesswoman who has received numerous national awards for her service to the community including using her newsagents and convenience store as a collection point for charities such as the Poppy Appeal.

County Times: Trudy's daughter Sarah and mother Barbara Woosnam.Trudy's daughter Sarah and mother Barbara Woosnam. (Image: Llanidloes Royal British Legion)

Trudy said: “To say I’m astonished and feel very grateful is an understatement. What an absolute honour.

“The citation which was written about me which I knew nothing about had me in tears on the evening. I knew nothing of this and a couple in the town knew it was all going on for two years but Covid has a lot to be not thanked for.

“I had my loved ones around me and my Legion family to share this honour. My members in number are small but oh what big hearts they all have. It is a small branch in mid Wales, but I think back on all the accomplishments they have managed to arrange.

“I am very loud, proud and passionate about everything in my life that I think is important, but the Llanidloes Legion has been a constant in my life. I have had so many good, sad, happy memories on my Legion journey through life.”

Pat Thomas added: "Mrs Davies is the face of the Royal British legion in the area. Veterans contact her when in need and she endeavours to provide help, support and information. During the lockdown she organised team boxes for veterans and older Royal British Legion members to acknowledge VE Day and let many who live on their own that they were not forgotten."

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