Confirmed: Alderson House in Bridlington to close as Royal British Legion looks to make savings of nearly £6 million

Following a period of consultation, the charity has confirmed it will cease to operate the town's much-loved holiday home on Bridlington's seafront alongside three other break centres and home maintenance service.

Doing so is expected to save the charity £5.8 million a year which will be diverted to support people "at their lowest ebb, at risk of homelessness, and in dire financial situations".

The Royal British Legion’s Director General, Charles Byrne, said: “The modern day needs of the Armed Forces community are changing and it is our duty to change in response. We have closely considered all options for our organisation, and I believe the path we have chosen is the right one to make the greatest difference to those tackling the toughest challenges.

“The decision to close our break centres and handy van service has not been taken lightly, and we are extremely sad it will ultimately lead to some of our colleagues leaving the charity.

"The affected staff have all contributed greatly to our work, they are part of our community, and we are doing all we can to support them in their next steps.

“I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the consultation process, and we will use the feedback to help sculpt our work moving forward.”

Since 2016 the charity says it has seen a 20 per cent increase in people needing basic support with housing, financial issues, mental health and well-being and mobility. The average expenditure per household through the Legion’s immediate needs funding has also risen from £900 to £1,330.

Speaking after the consultation was announced last November, Martin Jolly, chairman of the Bridlington branch, described Alderson House as a "focal point" for both veterans and beneficiaries, adding: “I can understand that the Royal British Legion has to focus their resources on different areas but it would be a real shame if they closed it.”