Dagenham naval group is recognised on its 75th anniversary

Dagenham members of the Royal Naval Association have been praised for their efforts in keeping alive the memories of military personnel killed at sea around the globe.

The crew have been meeting in Dagenham each week for 75 years and celebrated the landmark anniversary at Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club in Victoria Road last month.

On Friday, Dagenham & Rainham MP Jon Cruddas presented them with an Ministry of Defence certificate congratulating the crew for their comradeship, support and relief work.

Mr Cruddas said: “I am very pleased that the government and the MoD wanted to mark the anniversary of the Dagenham legion.”

Association social secretary Reg St Pier, 67, of Thetford Road, Dagenham, said: “We’re pleased. It’s a culmination for our 75th year.

“We celebrate with Pusser’s rum, which is well recognised in Naval circles.”

The presentation took place at Dagenham Civic Centre in Wood Lane.