Droylsden’s Ray Fricker raises £1,500 for Royal British Legion

A Droylsden man’s passion for military history has helped raise an impressive £1,500 for the Royal British Legion following a special fundraising event held at the Salisbury Club.

Ray Fricker, well-known locally for his extensive collection of wartime memorabilia, affectionately dubbed “the war room”, was invited by Gary White, chairman of the Salisbury Club, to stage a display as part of the club’s Royal British Legion Day.

“Gary popped over to see me about nine months ago,” said Ray. “He came to have a look at the war room and then asked if I’d like to help out by putting on a display for their Royal British Legion fundraiser. I thought, I can’t let that down, in Droylsden as well! So off I went.”

The event, which featured performances from Uke.2, Tameside Voices, and Private Lyon’s, proved a resounding success, drawing in crowds from across the community.

Ray’s display of authentic uniforms, medals, and wartime artefacts proved a popular attraction, sparking conversations and memories among visitors.

“I had a fantastic time,” Ray said. “The entertainment was brilliant; I was there from three o’clock right through until chucking-out time! It was a bit of an effort getting all the gear on, but everyone made me feel so welcome. It was unbelievable.”

Thanks to generous donations from those attending, and support from local businesses, the event has so far raised around £1,500, with final totals still being counted.

“I’d just like to say a big thank you to everyone who came along and donated,” Ray added. “Well done to the Salisbury Club, great stuff, and it was fantastic to be part of it. Thanks for inviting me.”

The funds will go directly to support the vital work of the Royal British Legion, helping veterans and their families across the UK.

Some of Rays war memorabilia collection