OBITUARIES
It is with sadness that we inform you that 493434 Lt Col John Hodgson TD passed away on 26 April
following a short illness. Lt Col Hodgson enlisted into the ranks and was Private and Officer Cadet 3 WFR in
1971 and 1972. Following his commission in 1972 he was posted to B Bty RA (3WFR). He was subsequently
promoted to Captain where he held the appointments of 2IC A Coy and OC E Coy before being promoted to
Major. Following his departure from 3 WFR he joined the pool of Watchkeepers and served in Bosnia as Lt
Colonel.
Following a private cremation, a thanksgiving service will be held at St Mary’s Parish Church, Shirenewton NP16
5HT on Tuesday 13 May at 1400 hours. This will be followed by the Wake at the Huntsman Hotel, Usk
Road, Shirenewton NP16 6BU
Anyone wishing to send letters of condolences can do so to Mrs Ann Hodgson 35 Laurel Park St. Arvans
Chepstow NP16 6ED
........................
It is with sadness that we inform you that 1434845 LCpl Charles Edward GOUGH passed away last month aged 95.
“Ted” originally enlisted into the Royal Artillery, Heavy Anti Aircraft, and transferred to the Worcestershire Regiment
during World War 2. He was released in January 1946.
.......................
It is with sadness that we inform you that 4977025 Sgt George C SCOTT of Keyworth, Nottingham died on 2
February 2014 aged 94. George enlisted into the 2nd/5th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters and served
with it in France with the BEF and later in North Africa, Italy, Greece and Austria before being demobbed in
March 1946. After the war he became very involved with the Royal British Legion and was a former
President of the Colston Basset, Owthorpe and Cotgrave Branch. His funeral is to take place at
Wilford Hill Crematorium, Nottingham on Monday 17 February 2014 at 1120 hours. The family would
appreciate it if Standards could be present.
..............................................
It is with regret we inform you that 5252332 Sgt John “Jack” Walter WILKINSON of Dudley died on 9 January
2014 aged 92. Jack joined 7th Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment and served with it throughout
the Second World War in UK, India and Burma. His funeral is to take place at Lower Gornal Crematorium,
Chase Road, Gornalwood, Dudley DY3 2RL on Thursday 30 January 2014 at 1220 hours.
...........................
It is with sadness we report that 4987654 Pte Peter PEARSON of Worksop died on 12 January 2014 aged 90.
Peter enlisted into 2nd/5th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters on 18 June 1942 and joined HQ Coy Signals in
North Africa and served with it through Tunisia, Italy, Greece and Austria before transferring to the Loyal
Regiment in March 1946. His funeral service is to take place on Thursday 30 January 2014 at 1400 hours in
Christ Church, Theivesdale Close, Worksop S81 0XS followed by committal at Retford Road Cemetery.
Standard Bearers Welcome. For those wishing to write in condolence the NoK is Mr M Pearson, 12 Grange Park
Drive, Morley, Leeds LS27 7UR.
It is with regret that we inform you that 2nd Lt John Gerald MORTIMER of Derby died on 30 December 2013
aged 77. John was commissioned into the 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters as a National Service Officer in
July 1956 and served in Germany before he retired in September 1957. He became a teacher in civilian life
before moving to the Sports Desk of the Derby Telegraph in July 1970 retiring in 2002 as Editor and Chief Sports
Reporter. His funeral is to take place at Markeaton Crematorium on Tuesday 14 January 2014 at 1040 hours.
..................
It is with sadness we inform you that 451261 A/Capt John Barry (Tracker) HENTON of Merton, Oxon died on 31
December 2013 aged 78. Tracker was commissioned into the 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in October 1956
and served in Malaya as OC Tracker Platoon in 1959 before being posted in 1960 to the Depot Staff in
Derby. He left the Army in 1962. His funeral is to take place at Oxford Crematorium, Bayswater
Road, Headington, Oxon OX3 9RZ on Thursday 16 January 2014 at 1115 hours. The family invite
mourners to join them at Studley Golf Club in Horton after the committal.
.....................
It is with regret we notify you that 5732344 WO2 Albert GRICE of Kidderminster died on 5 January
2014 aged 89. Albert enlisted into the Dorset Regiment in WW2 before transferring to 1st
Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment where he served with C Coy in Iserlohn, Germany and
British Guyana. In 1959 he was posted to 7th Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment as a PSI
and in 1960 was promoted to WO2. He returned to the 1st Battalion in 1962. Funeral details will
be promulgated when known.
...................
It is with regret we inform you that Pte Mike TODD of New Romney, Kent died on 7 January 2014
aged 70. Mike joined st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment in 1961 and served with
MT Platoon. He saw service inMinden, Lydd, Gibraltar, Tobruk and Shorncliffe before leaving
the Army in 1970. His funeral is to take place on Monday 20 January 2014 at 1400 hours at
Hawkinge Crematorium, Aerodrome Road, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7AG. Family flowers only.
8th Jan 2014. Mick Todd a ex Worcester passed away last night at the William Harvey hospital. He served in
the Regiment from 1961/1970 most of his time in the MT Platoon He served Minden, Lid,Gibraltar/Turku and
Shorncliffe Kent where he finished his 9 years and settled down in New Romney. I visited Mick last Friday
he was a bit off color with a chest infection. Then this morning i received a phone call at work, that he had
passed away A bit of a shock . Anyway i will be talking with the family to find what arrangements they are
making for the funeral.
Sam Smith Lydd
............................................
It is with regret we inform you that Pte 19190472 Ronald Frederick MILLS of Derby died on 13 December 2013 aged 84. Ron was
called up for National Service into the General Service Corps on 3 July 1947 and after training at Elgin in Scotland was posted to The
Sherwood Foresters. In January 1948 he was posted to the Lincolnshire Regiment and served in Palestine before leaving the
Army in 1949. Ron was a staunch member of Derby Branch WFRA. His funeral is to take place in the Main Chapel, Markeaton
Crematorium, Derby on Tuesday 24 December 2013 at 1000 hours. Standards welcome. Family flowers only but donations if desired
may be sent payable to G Wathall & Son Ltd 101 Macklin Street, Derby DE1 1LG to Ron’s chosen charities; Treetops Hospice,
MacMillan Cancer Support and The Royal British Legion. Mourners are invited to meet with the family at The Chellaston Social Club, 12
Derby Road, Chellaston DE73 6RA after the committal.
...............................
It is with sadness we inform you that 5253920 Pte Edward James (Benny) LENCH of Kidderminster died on 10 December 2013 aged
95. Benny enlisted in November 1939 at Norton Barracks and was posted to 7th Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment where he
served with 13 Platoon C Company until August 1941 when he transferred to the Royal Engineers No 40 Movement Control. He
left the Army in May 1946
.......................................
LCpl DERBY XXIX
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of LCpl Derby XXIX on 6th December 2013. LCpl Derby has suffered from
ill health for a number of months despite treatment from the Royal Army Veterinary Corps and local Vets.
A new ‘Derby’ has been kindly offered to the Regiment by his Grace the 12th Duke of Devonshire KCVO CBE. The selection procedure is
in process and it is hoped the new Pte Derby XXX will be available in the New Year.
LCpl Derby XXIX will be a great loss to the Regiment; however we look forward to his successor carrying on this proud Regimental
tradition into the future. Stand Firm, Strike Hard
...................................
It is with sadness we inform you that Dr Wendy ALLEN wife of the late Lt Col (Retd) K G Allen DL WFR Assistant Regimental Secretary
1977 - 80 and Regimental Secretary 1980 - 87 died recently. Her funeral is to take place at The Minster Parish Church, Ilminster on
Monday 23 December 2013 at 1400 hours.
..................................
It is with regret we notify you that 19030555 CSgt William H (Bill) Charmer of Ludlow, Shropshire died on 15 November 2013 aged 89.
Bill served in the Royal Marines from 1942 to 1946 in Burma and then briefly with the South Staffordshire Regiment before joining 1st
Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment. He served with it during the Berlin Airlift and in Malaya before being seconded to the Kenya
Regiment in Rhodesia and Kenya followed by two tours in BAOR and then British Honduras (Belize) before leaving the Army in 1968. His
funeral is to take place at 1200 hours on Monday 2 December 2013 at St Giles Church, Ludford, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 1PJ. . For
those wishing to write in condolence his son, Andrew may be contacted at 21 Holwick, Tamworth, Staffordshire B77 4HF.
................................
It is with sadness we inform you that 23761722 Pte John Alan BECKWORTH of The Meadows, Nottingham died on 14 November
2013 aged 75. John joined the 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters in February 1960 as a National Serviceman and served in Malaya and
Northern Ireland until completing his service in 1962. He was a staunch member of both the Sherwood Foresters Malay Veterans
Branch and Nottingham City Branch WFRA. His funeral is to take place at Wilford Hill Crematorium (West Chapel), Loughborough
Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 7FE on Thursday 28 November 2013 at 1220 hours. The family would appreciate
Standards in attendance and invite mourners to join them after the service at The Wilford Green Pub & Kitchen (used to be the Maypole
PH), Wilford Lane, Nottingham NG11 7AX.
.............................
DETAILS FOR THE FUNERAL OF THE LATE 24935549 WO2 IAN FISHER 3 MERCIAN (STAFFORDS)
24935549 WO2 IAN FISHER was Killed in Action whilst serving on Op HERRICK 19 on 5 November 2013. The funeral will take place
in Lichfield Cathedral on 3 December 2013.
The family extends the invitation to the Service at Lichfield Cathedral to all those wishing to attend and remember WO2 Fisher. The Act of
Committal will be for family members only.
The family further extends the invitation to the Reception to family, friends and those members of the Regiment who were close to WO2
Fisher at the George Hotel after the Service. The remainder of the Regimental family will gather at the Kings Head Public House in
Lichfield.
The details for his funeral, the Act of Committal and the Reception in Lichfield, on 3 December 2013 are as follows;
Timings. The funeral cortege will arrive at 1050 hours and the service will commence at 1100 hours. All mourners are requested to
be seated from 1000 hours, but No Later Than 1040 hours.
Parking. Due to the location of the Cathedral, parking on site is restricted to close family and Bearer/Firing Party, to which passes
will be issued. Full Colonels and above only are to park at RHQ Lichfield with onwards transport arranged by the Regt Adjt, Capt
PJD Shergold. All other personnel attending are advised to use one of the following car parks that are within walking distance:
(1) Bird Street Car Park WS13 6AB (Note: Standard Bearer RV)
(2) Frog Lane Multi-Storey Car Park WS13 6YY
Seating. Reserved seating will be set aside for family, friends, senior military and civic representatives. At the Service, ushers will advise
on the seating plan.
Service. The Service will be conducted jointly by The Very Rev Adrian Dorber Dean of Lichfield Cathedral, Padre Joe Mairrara 3
Mercian and The Precentor The Rev Canon Wealands Bell and will last approx 1 hour.
Dress. All serving members of the Armed Forces are asked to wear Service Dress/ No. 2/ FAD with No.1 Dress Hat, Sam Browne,
medals and no swords. Mourning Bands are only to be worn by Officers and Warrant Officers on the left arm, above the elbow.
Those without uniform are invited to wear jacket and Regimental tie.
Floral Tributes. Mrs Fisher has requested donations in lieu of flowers to be addressed to ‘The Mercian Regimental Charity’ care of Salt &
Son Funeral Directors, 28 Bridge St. Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 2RY. Tel. 01782 617073.
Standard Bearers. The Standard bearers are requested to gather at the Bird Street Car Park Not Later Than 1000 hours.
....................
We regret to inform you of the sad passing of Worcester Branch member Jack Thompson who passed away on Tuesday 12th
November 2013. Jack`s funeral will be at 12:30 hrs Pershore Abbey, Friday the 22nd November 2013. Standards to be present please.
More details will be posted as soon as they are received.
It is with regret we inform you that 23651938 CSgt Jack THOMPSON of Pershore died on 12 November 2013 aged 79. Jack
joined 7 Worc R after service with the RAF in 1956 and served as Signals CSgt to 1962. He was a staunch member of Worcester
Branch. The funeral is to take place at Pershore Abbey, Church Street WR10 1DT on 22 November 2013 at 1230 hours. Association
members and Standards welcome. For those wishing to write in condolence his wife Olive can be contacted at 1 Perscora Way,
Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 1QR.
...............................
The Memorial Service for Lt Col J W (Jock) Bannister TD who died on 11 October 2013 is to be held at All Saints Parish Church, Church
Street, Claverley, Wolverhampton WV5 7DS at 1130 hours on Tuesday 19 November 2013.
........................................
My father, Victor YEATES served with the Sherwood Forresters during the Second World War and now and then attended reunions.
He died recently (29th October 2013) and I am sure that you would wish to know of the dath of one of the few left from that era. Please
pass this information on to any whom you feel may wish or need to know.
.....................................
NOTIFICATION OF THE DEATH OF 24935549 WO2 IAN FISHER 3 MERCIAN (STAFFORDS)
Background
1. 24935549 WO2 Ian Fisher, A Coy, 3 MERCIAN (STAFFORDS) died on 05 Nov 13 from the wounds he received from an explosion of a vehicle borne IED, whilst serving on Op HERRICK 19.
2. The Emergency Contact and Nominated NOK is Mrs Emma Fisher who has been notified. CVO is WO2 Cron. The addresses for correspondence are as follows:
Unit:
Maj Neil Kelly (WO2 Fisher’s OC)
c/o Maj JA Faux
Chief of Staff
Headquarters
3/215 Brigade Advisory Team
BFPO 792
or
Lt Col Chris Davies (WO2 Fisher’s CO)
CO 3 MERCIAN (STAFFORDS)
3/215 Brigade Advisory Team
BFPO 792
Family:
Mrs Emma Fisher – (Wife)
c/o Capt D Travis
Unit Welfare Officer
3 MERCIAN (STAFFORDS)
Lumsden Barracks
BFPO 38
Repatriation DETAILS ON 8TH NOV ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER 1
3. Details of the repatriation ceremony will follow as they are confirmed.
Funeral
4. A date for the funeral has not been set. Further details will follow as they become available.
{electronically signed}
R Spiby
Lt Col (Retd)
Regtl Sec
The Mercian Regiment
.................................
It is with sadness we inform you that Mrs Joyce CUSHEN of Worcester, widow of 14184217 WO2
E H Cushen 1 WORC R died on 13 September 2013. The funeral has taken place.
................................................
It is with sadness we inform you that Lt Col John Wilson Bannister, T.D. (174308) of Bridgnorth,
Shropshire died on Friday 11 October 2013 aged 93. Colonel Bannister, known as “Jock”, was born
on 23 April 1920 at Bromsgrove. He was educated at Sebright Public School , Wolverley near Kidderminster.
After his schooling he followed his father’s career and started training to become a Solicitor. After
only 2 years war broke out and he decided to join the army and enlisted as a Guardsman in the
Grenadier Guards and started his army training. He was then selected to go to the Officers Cadet
Training Unit at Sandhurst and on 22 February 1941 received an Emergency Commission into the
Worcestershire Regiment as a 2nd Lieutenant.
He was posted to the 11th Battalion Worcestershire
Regiment as a Platoon Commander. On 1
January 1943 the 11th Battalion was reformed into the
1st Battalion Worcestershire Regiment and
took over command of the Mortar Platoon. He landed
with the 1st Battalion in Normandy in June
1944 and continued to command the Mortar Platoon
with the rank of War Substantive Captain.
“Jock” was involved in all the Battalions operations
throughout the war.
At the end of the war “Jock” was awarded a well deserved C-in-C's Certificate signed by FM
Montgomery for his outstanding service and devotion to duty. In May 1945,“Jock” transferred to the
1st Battalion Royal Ulster Rifles and served with them in Palestine as a Company Commander. He
was based in Ramala and was effectively responsible for the town and took on the role of town
Mayor. The following year he returned to the UK to continue his training as a solicitor and 2 years
later he joined his father’s firm of W W Bannister & Son at Stourbridge, but remained in the Army Reserve
of Officers in the Territorial Army.
During the Suez Crisis he was recalled for service and joined the 7th Battalion Worcestershire
Regiment as a Company Commander with the rank of Major. He then spent the next eight years with
the T A as a Coy Commander with the 7th Battalion based at Halesowen. In 1961 "Jock" was
appointed 2 IC and three years later was promoted to Lieut.-Colonel and given command. The same
year he was awarded the Territorial Efficiency Decoration (TD) and continued to command the 7th
Battalion until it was disbanded in 1967. He was the last commanding officer of that Battalion.
Later in life “Jock” continued his association with the Worcestershire Regiment by becoming
Chairman of the 1st Battalion Worcestershire Regiment N.W. Europe 1944-45 Association and was
responsible to organising all the annual re-union dinners and get-togethers until the very last one in
May 2011.
There is to be a remembrance/memorial service on Tuesday 19 November 2013 and details will be
promulgated when known.
.............................................
It is with regret that we inform you that 4986609 Pte Melvyn Edwin ‘Ted’ CARLIN of Grantham, Lincs
died on 16 September 2013 aged 89. Ted enlisted into The Sherwood Foresters on 31 December
1941 and after training at the Regimental Depot and Infantry Training Centre at Lincoln was posted
to the 70th Battalion Sherwood Foresters remaining with it when it became the 16th Battalion
Sherwood Foresters. He was then posted to the 2nd Battalion Sherwood Foresters and embarked
with it for service in North Africa. He remained with the 2nd Battalion throughout the North Africa and
Italy campaigns until the end of hostilities when he was posted to a Military Mission until demob in
1947. After the war he became a bus/coach driver then went on to become a Local Government
Officer. He was a staunch supporter of the Newark Branch WFRA, attending his last meeting only
four days prior to his death.
His funeral is to take place at Grantham Crematorium on Wednesday 9 October 2013 at 1530 hours.
Standard Bearers welcome.
....................................
It is with sadness we inform you that 4984751 Cpl John DANN of Mansfield died on 18 August 2013
aged 90. John enlisted into the newly formed 70th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters on 29
November 1940 remaining with it when it became the 16th Battalion on coastal defence duties. In
January 1943 when it became the re-constituted 1st Battalion he was drafted out to North Africa as a
reinforcement where he was transferred to the 2/7th Battalion Queen’s West Surrey Regiment. For
those wishing to write in condolence to his widow Jean, her address is 127 Ladybrook Lane,
Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG18 5JH
....................................
It is with sadness we notify you that 19037696 CSgt (Drum Major) John J BIRCHER of Derby died on
8 August 2013 aged 84. He served with the 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters from 1947 to early
1952 and then re-enlisted six months later into the 2nd Battalion. On the amalgamation of 1st and 2nd
Battalions in 1954 he became Drum Major of the 1st Battalion. He left the Army in 1968.
His funeral is to take place at Markeaton Crematorium Derby on Tuesday 17 September 2013 at
0900 hours. As he has no known family it would be appreciated if as many Association members/
Standard Bearers could attend as possible.
.................................
We regret to inform you that Major (QM) Gary Duncan PITMAN of Broadway, Worcestershire died on
5 September 2013. Gary enlisted into the Worcestershire Regiment in August 1961 having
previously seen service with the 7th Battalion as a Volunteer. After training he joined the 1st Battalion
at Norton Barracks before proceeding to Germany. He remained with the 1st Battalion serving with it
at Lydd, Gibraltar, Libya and Bulford until amalgamation in 1970. It was then he was posted to 1 D &
D in Malta and remained with it for seven years after which time he served at the School of Infantry,
the Depot, Crickhowell and finally returning to the School of Infantry.
In August 1980 he was commissioned into the Regiment and once more joined the 1st Battalion in
Hemer carrying out the duties of Unit Families Officer. Gary was then granted a QM Commission
and saw service in Northern Ireland with the UDR and 1st Battalion before joining 2 MERCIAN (V)
and subsequently 4 WFR as QM. On leaving the Regiment in 1991 Gary took up an NRPS QM post
at Redditch with 22 Signal Regiment (V), continuing to serve the 4th Bn as he provided the
administrative backing to make the Regimental ‘At Homes’ at Repton School and Hartlebury Castle
such a success.
His funeral is to take place at St Michaels Church, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7AE on
Thursday 19 September 2013 at 1230 hours. Standards welcome. For those wishing to write in
condolence his widow Mrs Ann Pitman can be contacted at 23 Sandcourt Avenue, Broadway WR12
7EJ.
...............................
It is with sadness we inform you that 23967367 WO2 Malcolm “Brock” BROCKLEBANK of
Whittington, Staffordshire died on Monday 9 September 2013 aged 68. Brock enlisted into the 1st
Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment in 1964 and continued to serve after amalgamation with 1st
Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment until completing his service in
1986. He saw service in Minden, Gibraltar, Libya, N Irelandand Belize. For those wishing to write in
condolence his widow Mrs Valerie Brocklebank can be contacted at 25 Burton Road, Whittington nr
Lichfield, Staffordshire WS14 9NN. Funeral details will be promulgated when known.
.......................................
NOTIFICATION OF THE DEATH OF 30156468 PTE MICHAEL IHEMERE OF 1 MERCIAN
It is with deep sadness that we have to inform you that
Pte Michael Ihemere died whilst taking part in routine training at Catterick on Thursday 28 August 2013.
Letters of condolence to Pte Ihemere’s widow should be sent to:
Mrs B Ihemere
c/o Captain Elms
Unit Welfare Officer
Welfare Office
1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment
Marne Barracks
Catterick Garrison
North Yorkshire
DL10 7NP
Letters of condolence to the Commanding Officer and the 1st Battalion should be sent to:
Lieutenant Colonel Mark Ellwood
Commanding Officer
1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment
Marne Barracks
Catterick Garrison
North Yorkshire
DL10 7NP
A date for his funeral has not been set. Further details will follow as soon as this information is known.
.............................
It is with sadness that we inform you that Peter Milner of Derby former member of C Coy 3 WFR(V) died on 8
August 2013. Pete completed his National Service with the Intelligence Corps and joined C Coy 3 WFR and
served as a Sergeant. His funeral will take place at Markeaton Crematorium (Main Chapel) at 12pm on
Tuesday 27 August 2013. No Branch Standards or floral tributes at the request of his family.
...................................
It is with regret that we inform you that 5253719 Pte Walter Arthur James of Worcester died on 11 August
2013 aged 94. He served with the 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment from 1939 in India and
Germany and demobilised in 1945. His funeral will take place at St John’s Church, Worcester WR2 5BS at
1315 hours on the 23 August. For those wishing to write in condolence his next of kin is his nephew Mr P
James, Priest Hole, Priestfields, Hanley Castle, Worcestershire WR8 0AU.
...........................
It is with regret we inform you that 23239269 CSgt Trevor (Jack) DOUGHTY of Nottingham died
on 27 June 2013 aged 76. Jack enlisted into the 1st Bn The Sherwood Foresters in May 1955
and served in Germany and Malaya. He continued to serve on amalgamation with The
Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in Berlin, Northern Ireland and UK. He left
the army in October 1977 serving as a PSI (T) with E Coy 3 WFR (V) and then joined 3 WFR
(V) as a PSI (A) with D Coy
....................................
It is with sadness we inform you that 24111391 CSgt Robert NASH of Nottingham died on 27
June 2013 aged 64. Bob joined 1 Worc R in 1966 and served in UK, Gibraltar and Cyprus. On
amalgamation he joined A Coy 1 WFR. He served in Warminster, Berlin, Colchester, Belize,
Hemer, Cambridge and Cyprus interspersed with tours of NI. He also served with 1 Mercian
(V) and D Coy 3 WFR (V) as a QPSI. He left the Army in 1989 and in civilian life became a
security guard with Nottingham University.
His funeral is to take place on Monday 8 July 2013 at Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane,
Bramcote, Nottinghamshire at 1445 hours in the Main Chapel. Family flowers only but
donations may be made to Help for Heroes through A W Lymn, Funeral Directors, St. Albans
House, High Street, Arnold, Nottingham NG5 7DZ. Standards welcome.
..........................................................
It is with regret we notify you that Lieutenant Ian ASTLEY of Bishopstone, Herefordshire died on 12 June
2013 aged 78. Ian was commissioned on National Service into the 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters in
June 1954 and served with it in Derna , Libya . On completing his service he joined the 8th Battalion
Sherwood Foresters as a TA Officer. His funeral is to take place on Thu 20 June 2013 at 1500 hours at
Bishopstone Church , Herefordshire.
It is with sadness we inform you that 248378 Padre Capt William SPEIRS of Melrose , Scotland died on 13
June 2013 aged 96. Capt Speirs served with 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment in WW2 and
took part in the battles for Hill 112 and the Falaise Gap where he was wounded. His funeral is to take place at
1100 hours on Fri 21 June 2013 at Borders Crematorium, Melrose TD6 9HA. No flowers but
donations may be made to the Malawi Christian Day Care Children’s Centre via the funeral directors Thomas
Brown & Sons, East Port, Melrose TD6 9EE
.........................................
It is with regret that we inform you that Captain Douglas James SNOXHILL of Godalming,
Surrey died on 18 May 2013 aged 90. Douglas was called up in 1941 and after training at
Norton Barracks attended Sandhurst before being commissioned into The Worcestershire
Regiment and joining 11 Worc R in November. In 1944 he was posted as an instructor at the
Infantry NCO School until joining 9 Worc R. He transferred to A Coy 1 Worc R in July 1945 and
served in BAOR and Trieste until his release in November 1946.
..................................................................................
It is with sadness we inform you that Mrs Barbara Harris passed away on Thursday 23 May
2013. Barbara was the wife of 23735878 WO2 (CSM) Roy (Rolly) Harris 1 WFR and he would
be pleased to hear from any friends or comrades. Rolly can be contacted on 01204 435223.
.................................................
It is with great sadness that I inform you that, 23856031 L/Cpl Ernest Dee from
Worcester passed away on Saturday morning on 25th may 2013 aged 71. Ernie enlisted with the 1st Battalion
Worcestershire Regiment in September 1962. After training in Lichfield joined the Battalion in Minden in
January 1963, where he completed 6 years with the colours and was finally discharged after 14 years with
the reserve in September 1982.
His funeral will take place at Worcester Crematorium on Wednesday 12th June at 11:30 Hrs.
........................................................................
It is with regret we inform you that Major Gordon PARKIN of Worcester died on 3 May 2013
aged 79. He enlisted in February 1952 with the number 22640189 and after basic training at
Norton Barracks he joined 1 Worc R in Malaya. He rose rapidly in rank to Corporal in 5 months
and Sergeant in 18. Apart from 2 tours at ERE he spent all his service in the Regiment and
was RSM of 1 WFR 1970 – 73 including the Presentation of Colours Parade in Warminster, the
UN tour in Cyprus, Northern Ireland and Berlin. He spent the last year of his regular service as
RSM 3 WFR before being appointed to a TA commission before retiring in 1982. Always one of
the smartest men on parade he had an impressive parade ground presence.
His funeral is to take place at Worcester Crematorium on Wednesday 15 May 2013 at 1400
hours. Standard Bearers would be welcome. For those wishing to write in condolence to Mrs G
Parkin, her address is held in RHQ Nottingham.
It is with regret that we notify you that 22488234 WO2 A J ANNIS died on 5 May 2013. Jack
joined the Worcestershire Regiment as a regular soldier in the 1950’s and served with the 1st
Battalion in Malaya. After leaving the Army he later joined the 7th Bn the Worcestershire
Regiment at A Company based at Dudley, Worcestershire. On the re organisation of the
Territorial Army in 1967 he joined B Company [Worcestershire] Mercian Volunteers based at
Kidderminster as Colour Sgt [CQMS] where he became one of the mainstays of the new
company. ‘Jack’ as he was universally known worked hard to make the Company a strong
viable entity. He was promoted WO2 and remained the Company Sgt Major until his retirement.
Strongly supported by his own family he did a great deal to develop the strong family ethos
within the Company, which it still maintains today through the Kidderminster Branch of the
Mercian Volunteers Regimental Association. He continued to support the Association functions
until his health made it too difficult for him to attend.
His funeral is to take place at the Gornal Crematorium, Dudley on Wednesday 29 May 2013 at
1100 hours. The family would appreciate Standard Bearers and Association members to be in
attendance. For those wishing to write in condolence to his widow Mrs Rose Annis, her
address is 166 Ashenhurst Road, Russell’s Hall Estate, Dudley DY1 2HX. ..........................................................................
It is with regret we inform you that 4981875 Pte Cyril Arthur GLOVER of Nottingham died on 26
April 2013 aged 93. Cyril enlisted into The Sherwood Foresters in June 1940 and served at El
Alamein and Anzio before being transferred to The Royal Leicestershire Regiment in November
1944. His funeral is to take place at The West Chapel, Wilford Hill Crematorium on Tuesday 14
May 2013 at 1100 hours. The family would welcome Standard Bearers and members of WFRA
in attendance.
It is with sadness that we notify you that Mrs Maragaret McGreade wife of the late 22115128
CSgt Raymond McGreade died on 23 April 2013.
.................................................................................
It is with sadness we notify you that Captain John Robinson BENNETT of Mickleton,
Gloucestershire died on 9 April 2013 aged 94. Billy, as he was known, enlisted into the
Sherwood Foresters on 15 July 1939 and served as an OR at the Depot in Derby. On 8
december 1939 he was posted to 168 OCTU at Aldershot and in May 1940 was commissioned
as a 2nd Lieutenant in 8th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters with which he served in Ireland until
1942 when he moved with it to Wrotham in Kent and it re-roled to become 148 Pre-OCTU. He
was posted to the 2nd Battalion where he was wounded at Anzio when he was Mortar Platoon
Commander. He rejoined the 2nd Battalion in June 1944 as Coy Commander HQ Company. In
1945 he went to India and saw service with both the 12th and 13th Battalions The Sherwood
Foresters until being demobbed in 1946. A career followed in Mining in the Steel Rope Industry
until he retired in 1980. For those wishing to write in condolence to his daughters, their
addresses are held by RHQ Nottingham.
It is with regret we inform you that 4984461 Sgt Willim Thomas BECKETT of Sandiacre,
Derbyshire died on 29 March 2013 aged 97. He enlisted into the 14th Battalion The Sherwood
Foresters in October 1940 and served with it in North Africa, the Middle East and Italy. He left
the Army in 1946.
.............................................................................................
It is with regret we inform you that 21013238 WO2 (RQMS) Reginald Walter HOAD of Derby
died on 2 April 2013 aged 95. Reg served with the Grenadier Guards during WW2 and after
demob joined 5th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters, remaining with it when it amalgamatedwith the 8th Battalion Sherwood Foresters in 1961 to become the 5th/8th Battalion Sherwood
Foresters. After completing his TA service he joined the Derbyshire Army Cadet Force as Chief
Clerk and served with it from 1976 to 1982. His funeral is to take place at Markeaton
Crematorium on Wednesday 17 April 2013 at 1040 hours. Standards welcome.
It is with sadness we notify you that 23414151 Pte Roy Percy BRIDGWATER of Alcester,Warwickshire died on 4 April 2013 aged 77.
Roy joined The Warwickshire Regiment as a National Serviceman on 13 August 1957 and was then posted to 1st Battalion The Sherwood
Foresters for service in Malaya. He left the Army in August 1959
.........................................................................................
It is with sadness we report that 25228073 LCpl Jamie WEBB of Wilmslow, Cheshire aged 24
serving with C Coy 1 MERCIAN died on 26 March 2013 as a result of wounds sustained during
an insurgent attack on his patrol base in Nad ‘Ali in Helmand Province, Afghanistan on 25
March 2013. Jamie joined 1st Battalion The Cheshire Regiment in 2006 and remained with 1
MERCIAN on amalgamation in 2007. He served in Northern Ireland, Iraq and was on his third
operational tour in Afghanistan when he was killed. For those wishing to write in condolence
the contact is Mr D Webb (Father) c/o Lt Col Temminck BEM, RHQ MERCIAN, Heath Avenue,
Whittington Barracks, Lichfield WS14 9TJ.
The repatriation ceremony is to take place at 1430 hours on Thursday 4 April 2013 at RAF
Brize Norton. The cortege is expected to pass Carterton Memorial Garden between
approximately 1515 hours and 1630 hours for those officers, soldiers and members of the
Regimental family who wish and are able to pay their respects. Regimental Standards are
welcome and standard bearers are to report to the Carterton Memorial Garden by not later than
1445 hours for a brief from Maj Eddie Pickering.
.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
We regret to inform you that Captain Terence ROCHFORD of Upton upon Severn died on 26
February aged 87. After attending RGS Worcester he enlisted in The Worcestershire Regiment
in November 1943 and after training at Norton Barracks was commissioned in The Baluch
Regiment in 1945. He served with them in India and the Middle East and spent his last 8
months before demobilisation in September 1947 in Palestine with 2 North Staffords. He later
worked for GKN in the Middle East, India, Pakistan and Iran
..............................................................................................................................................................................................
We regret to inform you that Mrs Valerie Welchman of Wooton Courtney, Somerset died in
2012 aged 99. Mrs Welchman was the widow of Lt Col John Roger WELCHMAN DSO who
commanded 2nd/5th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters from October 1943 to March 1946.
....................................................................................................
Re: 20130214_Obituary_Major_L-S-Durrant_The_Worcesterhire_Regiment-Amendment
We regret to inform you that Major L S Durrant of Worcester died on 5 February 2013 aged 92. He was commissioned into The Worcestershire Regiment in 1940 and after service in UK landed in Normandy as Adjt 1 Worc R. He was later evacuated and after service at the Depot went on to serve with the Sudan Defence force and 9 Worc R before rejoining 1 Worc R in 1946. He saw service in Trieste , Luneburg , Berlin and Iserlohn . He attended the Staff College in 1951 and after further staff appointments was Training Major of 7 Worc R from 1958 to 1961. He retired from the regular army in 1961 and from the TA in 1967.
His funeral is to take place at Worcester Crematorium on Friday 15 December 2013 at 1430 hours
..................................................................................................
It is with regret we inform you that 3461274 George WHIDDETT died on 29 January 2013 aged
90. George enlisted into the Lancashire Fusiliers on 15 July 1941 later serving with the West
Yorkshire Regiment and then the East Yorkshire Regiment before transferring to 1st Battalion
The Worcestershire Regiment on 19 July 1946. He served in Berlin, Germany, Malaya, West
Indies and UK before leaving the Regiment on 23 September 1963. His funeral is to take place
at Worcester Crematorium on Wednesday 6 February 2013 at 1430 hours. Donations, if
desired, for Help for Heroes, may be placed upon the collection plate available at the Service.
For those wishing to write in condolence his Daughter Mrs Olga Todd can be contacted at 10
Albert Road, Worcester WR5 1EB .........................................
It is with sadness we inform you that Maj John S BAILEY MBE TD of Worcester died on 17
January 2013 aged 86. John was commissioned into the Worcestershire Regiment in 1943.
He served in Italy in 1944/45 with 1 KORR and after the war with 7 WORC R in Malvern,
Evesham and Worcester until 1967. He was Stewardship Adviser to Worcester Diocese until
1979 and a member of the General Synod, then Diocesan Secretary in Leicester. He was
awarded the MBE for his charitable work in 2007. His funeral is to take place at St Barnabas
Church, Green Lane Worcester on Friday 1 February 2013 at 0930 hours.
.............................................
It is with regret that we inform you that 22797121 Cpl Derek GOODMAN of South Normanton,
Derbyshire died on 19 January 2013 aged 78. ‘Benny’ joined the 2nd Battalion Sherwood
Foresters in March 1952 as a National Serviceman and was posted to the Royal Warwickshire
Regiment in March 1953 for service in Korea. He left the Army in 1955. His funeral is to take
place at Mansfield Crematorium (Newstead Chapel) on Friday 1 February 2013 at 1345 hours.
Standards are welcome.
..............................................
It is with sadness we inform you that 2Lt John Edward HOWLETT of Loughborough died in
October 2012. John served with the 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters as a National Service
Officer 1952 – 1955. For those wishing to write in condolence, his wife Betty may be contacted
at 16 Ashleigh Drive, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 3HW
Friends of the Regiment:
....................................
It is with sadness we inform you that Mrs Eileen Shrimpton wife of ex WO2 (CSM) Charlie
Shrimpton (1 WORC R) died on 8 January 2013 aged 83.
........................................................................
It is with regret that we inform you that 22593211 Pte Eric Albert HODGKISS of Brierley Hill,
West Midlands died on 24 March 2012 aged 79. Eric served as a National Serviceman with 1
WORC R in Malaya
............................................................................................
It is with sadness we inform you that 362109 Major (Retd) Frederick Keith MITCHELL TD of
Ventnor, Isle of Wight died on 27 December 2012 aged 85. Keith joined The Sherwood
Foresters on 15 February 1945 and served at Mark Eaton Park in Derby with 27 Training
Battalion before moving to 163 OCTU at Morecambe in September 1945. He was
commissioned into The Sherwood Foresters on 26 January 1946 and served with 7 ITC in
Lincoln before serving with various infantry battalions in the Middle East. In September 1948
he joined 8th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters as 2IC B Coy in Sutton in Ashfield. In 1960 he
commanded D Coy at Triumph Road in Nottingham. He retired in 1961 on the amalgamation of
the 5th and 8th Battalions but between 1968 – 1970 was invited to return from retirement to
Command the 5/8th Cadre at Triumph Road an appointment for which he reckoned he was 25th
choice! His funeral Service is to take place at St Mary and St Rhadegund, Whitwell, Isle of
Wight on 9 January 2013 at 1130 hours. Family flowers only but donations may be made to
SSAFA c/o William Hall Independent funeral Directors, Newchurch, Isle of Wight. Tel: 01983
868688.
.................................................
It is with regret we inform you that 4976669 Sgt Francis Alan LAWMAN of Worksop,
Nottinghamshire died on 1 January 2013 aged 92. Titch joined 8th Battalion The Sherwood
Foresters in 1937 and served in UK, Norway and Northern Ireland before being transferred to
the Recce Corps in 1941 (becoming REME in 1942) and served in Iraq, Palestine, Tunisia, Italy
(Salerno and Anzio) before being returned to Haifa on medical grounds. In 1949 he rejoined 8th
Battalion and was promoted to Sgt and given the new number of 22220840. He was
discharged in 1961 after 24 years service. His funeral Service is at St Annes Church, Worksop
on Monday 14 January 2013 at 1430 hours followed by committal at Ollerton Crematorium. A
Wake is to be held in the Station Hotel, Worksop to which all mourners are invited.
................................................
It is with sadness we notify you that the funeral of W0446819 WO2 Susan SANSOM BEM of
Kirkby in Ashfield is to take place on Wednesday 9 January 2013 at 1045 hours at Mansfield
Crematorium followed by a Wake at East Kirkby Miners Welfare. Sue joined the 3rd Battalion
Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters (Volunteers) in 1975 and served with it until it was
disbanded in 1999.
............................................................................
It is with sadness we inform you that 22092762 Sgt Dennis Arthur BROADLEY of Bulwell,
Nottingham died on 9 December 2012 aged 82. Jim served with 1st Battalion The Sherwood
Foresters as a National Serviceman 1949 – 1950. On completing his service he joined
Nottingham City Police and then joined 8th Battalion Sherwood Foresters (TA). He re-enlisted
into the 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters in 1954 and served until 1969. Jim served in Malaya
with A Coy 1958 – 1960. He also saw service with Support Coy and D Coy. On leaving the
Army in 1969 Jim took up employment with the Post Office until his retirement. His funeral is to
take place at Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane, Bramcote, Nottingham on Friday 28
December 2012 at 1100 hours. By Jim’s request – no black and no flowers but donations may
be made to Cancer Research UK via Baguley Brothers Funeral Directors, 500 Mansfield Road,
Nottingham NG5 2FB. Standards welcome.
.................................
It is with sadness we report that 4976115 Pte William Howell WRIGHT of Eastwood,
Nottinghamshire died on 30 November 2012 aged 93. Bill enlisted into The Sherwood
Foresters at Normanton Barracks, Derby on 16 July 1938 and was posted to the 1st Battalion.
He went with it to Palestine, Cyprus and North Africa where he was taken PoW at the Fall of
Tobruk in 1942. He was demobbed on repatriation on 5 February 1946. His funeral is to take
place at Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane, Bramcote, Nottinghamshire on 13 December
2012 at 1145 hours. The family would appreciate it if Standards could attend. The family have
requested that those wishing to make a charitable donation in remembrance of Bill, may do so
to the “Crich Memorial Tower Fund” or “The Mercian Regiment Charity” and forward such
donation c/o Mr S Castledine, Eastwood & District Funeral Services 154 Nottingham Road,
Eastwood, Nottinghamshire NG16 3GG.
..........................
It is with regret that we inform you that 4979020 Pte William YARDLEY of Chesterfield,
Derbyshire died on 30 April 2011 aged 91. Bill enlisted into the 2nd/5th Battalion The Sherwood
Foresters in January 1940 and went with it to France as part of the BEF. The Battalion was
evacuated from Dunkirk on the 2 June 1940 then served in Scotland until January 1941 before
moving to East Anglia and later Kent. In December 1942 the Battalion embarked for North
Africa disembarking at Algiers on the 3rd January 1943. After the liberation of North Africa, Bill
returned to the UK to serve with 18 Platoon 8th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters at Wrotham in Kent. He completed his service on 1 August 1946.
.......................................
It is with regret we inform you that Sgt Wilfred PYATT of Kidderminster who served with F (HSF)
Coy 4th Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment died on 29 October
2012
......................................
It is with sadness we inform you that 24276724 Sgt Stephen NURSE of Rheindahlen, Germany
died on Sunday 11 November 2012 aged 59. Stephen enlisted into 1st Battalion The
Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in March 1976 and was employed as a clerk.
He left the Regiment in September 1988 and later joined the Royal Army Ordnance Corps in June
1989 until leaving the Army in May 2001. He then joined NAAFI Support Services, based in JHQ
Rheindahlen as the Training and Assurance Manager. A service is to be held at Bestattungshaus
Dohmen, Kommweidenstrasse 10, 52525 Dremnen, Heinsberg on Sunday 18 November 2012
commencing at 1500 hours.
................................
It is with sadness that we inform you that 23701751 Peter LAWRENCE of Chesterfield, Derbyshire
died on 1 November 2012. Peter joined the 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment in 1958
and left it in 1967. He served in the West Indies, BAOR, UK and Gibraltar. His funeral is to take
place at Chesterfield Crematorium at 1530 hours on Friday 9 November 2012. For those wishing
to write in condolence, the address of his widow Ethel is 36 Harehill Road, Grangewood Farm
Estate, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S40 2NG
.............................
It is with regret we inform you that 19178397 Cpl. Frank Chadwick died on 4th November 2012. Frank served with 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment. He enlisted in 1947 serving in Berlin during the blockade when all supplies had to be flown in. He then went with D Coy to Malaya 1950-52.
Frank sent in an album of photos on the Album page www.wfraworcester.com of his thoughts and service in Malaya.
Frank`s funeral will be at 14:00hrs on the 16th of November 2012 at Worcester Crematorium, Astwood Rd, Worcester. WR3 8HA.
For those wishing to write in condolence his widow Mrs F Chadwick can be contacted at 5 Middle Street, Arboretum, Worcester WR1 1NQ.
.....................................
It is with regret we inform you that Lt E Roger HOFFEN of London died on 6 October 2012 aged
76. Roger served with the 8th Battalion Sherwood Foresters in 1955.
..................................
It is with regret we inform you that 23791728 Pte Ronald HURST of Newark died on 19 July 2011
aged 72. Ronald served with A Coy 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters as a National
Serviceman 1959 – 1961.
It is with regret we inform you that 23535009 Cpl George STEVENS of Harvey Bay, Queensland,
Australia died on 14 October 2012 aged 73. George enlisted into the 1st Battalion The Sherwood
Foresters in 1957 serving with it in Malaya and Singapore. He continued to serve with 1st
Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters on amalgamation and left the Regiment in
January 1980 after serving in Northern Ireland, West Germany and Berlin. His funeral took place
on Wednesday 17 October 2012 at Great Southern Garden of Remembrance, Carbrook,
Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Messages of condolences may be sent to his son Troy on
stevenst@rocketmail.com
......................
It is with sadness we inform you that 23545047 Cpl Christopher SALES of Lancaster died on 13
October 2012. Chris served with B Coy 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters 1958 – 1964 in
Malaya and Cyprus. His funeral is to take place at the Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium,
Powder House Lane, Torrisholme, Lancaster LA2 6AD on Tuesday 23 October 2012 at 1140
hours. Standards welcome.
.......................
It is with regret that we inform you that 22219593 WO2 Ivor J LANGSTONE MBE of Uttoxeter died
on 12 September 2012 aged 85. Ivor served with the Royal Air Force during his National Service
and on discharge in 1948 he joined the 7th Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment TA. He then
transferred to the Regular Army in July 1958 and served with the 1st battalion The Worcestershire
Regiment in the Caribbean, N Africa, BAOR, Gibraltar, Tobruk, Cyprus, N Ireland and UK. He
remained with the regiment on amalgamation in 1970. In 1972 he served in Berlin as Weapons
Training Warrant Officer with 1 WFR Command Coy. He also served with B Company
1st Battalion Mercian Volunteers as their Senior PSI and was a major influence in the
development of the Company where he was an excellent PSI and a very good ambassador of the
Regiment. He left 1st Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment on 19
December 1977. The funeral was held at Stafford Crematorium on 27th September 2012.
For those wishing to write in condolence, Mrs Gill Langstone's address is : 14 Bennion Grove,
Denstone, Uttoxeter ST14 5 EZ
...............................
It is with regret we inform you that 22587235 Pte John Bird of Worcester has passed away. John joined the 1st Battalion the Worcestershire Regiment on 6th Sept 1951. He was with 11 Platoon D Coy, serving in Malaya and left the Regiment in September 1953. His Funeral will take place on 15th October, at Worcester Crematorium, Astwood Road, Worcester. WR3 8HA.
Letters of condolence can be written to John`s son Michael Bird. 13 Belmont Street, Worcester. WR3 8NN.
......................................
It is with regret we inform you that 22643500 SSgt George Andrew BRAY of Malvern,
Worcestershire died on 24 September 2012 aged 78. George enlisted into the 1st Battalion The
Worcestershire Regiment in February 1952 and served with it in Malaya, West Indies and Tobruk.
He continued to serve with 1st Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment on
amalgamation in 1970 moving to the Long Service List in 1974. He left the Regiment in
November 1988.
His funeral is to take place on Tuesday 2 October 2012 at 1230 hours in St Peter’s Church,
Cowliegh Bank, Malvern WR14 1QS. Standards welcome.
.....................................
It is with regret that we inform you that 23685890 Cpl David LICENCE of Humberstone, Leicester
died on 19 September 2012 aged 71. Dave enlisted into The Royal Leicestershire Regiment in
December 1958 and joined its 1st Battalion in Germany where he served in B Coy. He then
transferred into the Sherwood Foresters in February 1962 and served with the 1st Battalion in MT
later joining A Coy and serving with it in Cyprus and Munster. He left the Regiment in December
1967 and then joined the TA in 1972. Dave was a staunch member of Derby WFRA.
His funeral is to take place at St Mary’s Church, Main Street, Humberstone, Leicestershire LE5
1AE at 1100 hours on Tuesday 9 October 2012 followed by internment at Gilroes Cemetery at
1245 hours. Donations if desired to LOROS (to whom cheques should be made payable). All
donations and enquiries to Joseph Swift & Asian Funeral Directors, 209 Uppingham road,
Leicester LE5 4BQ T: 0116 2743414. Please note that there are no parking facilities at the
church. Standards welcome.
..................................................
We regret we have to inform you of the death of Lt John Mugglestone. 5/8 Foresters TA after a long illness. John joined the Sherwood Foresters Territorial Force on 5 February 1958 at Church Gresley when Maj Tony Sutton was OC the Coy and served until 1966 before joining the Civil Defence as a full time officer and then the Probation Service where he held a senior appointment until he retired.
John's wife Marian and family would welcome anyone from the association or his old TA unit at the funeral which is being held on Friday Sept 28 at 14.30 in the Parish Church , Packington near Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
........................................................
It is with great sadness we notify you that 407875 Brigadier Charles HINCE CBE DL (late the
Sherwood Foresters and Royal Welch Fusiliers) died 16th September 2012 aged 82. Chas was
called up as a National Serviceman in January 1948. In August 1948 he went to OCTU as a
Gunner but in 1949 he was commissioned into the 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters joining it
in Goslar. In 1956 he became Adjutant of the 5th Battalion and rejoined the 1st Battalion to go with
it to Malaya in 1958 as 2IC B Coy and in 1959 he was appointed GSO3 Ops/Trg 17th Gurkha
Division. He then went to Staff College Camberley in 1961 before being posted as GSO2
AFNORTH in Norway. In 1964 he returned to the 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in Cyprus
as A Coy Comd. In 1966 he attended the Joint Service Staff Course No 66 at Latimer and on
completion was posted to the School of Infantry in Warminster as an All Arms Wing Instructor. He
was then posted to Berlin as OC C Coy 1 STAFFORDS. In 1969 he transferred and Commanded
1st Battalion The Royal Welch Fusiliers in Hong Kong before being posted to Northern Ireland as
GSO1 Ops/Plans in Lisburn. In 1975 he was posted to SHAPE as Col GS Joint Ex Planning Staff,
this was followed by a posting as Senior Army DS at the National Defence College, Latimer. His
last appointment in the army was as Comd 160 Inf Bde. On retirement he took up a post as
Bursar of St Edmund’s College, the oldest Roman Catholic school in Britain and did much to
modernise and improve the administration.
His funeral is to take place on 2 October 2012 at 1130 hours in St Richard of Chichester RC
Church, Buntingford SG9 9HT. No memorial Service at his request. Family flowers only.
As the church is quite small, it would be appreciated if those planning to attend could inform RHQ
Nottingham on 0115 9465415 so the family may be advised.
...................................
It is with regret that we inform you that 23682623 Cpl Brian (Buster) KIMMONS of Bolsover,
Derbyshire died on 3 September 2012 aged 72. Buster served with the 1st Battalion Sherwood
Foresters in Malaya 1958 to 1961 and left the Army on 7 October 1964. His funeral is to take place
on Monday 17 September 2012 at Bolsover Methodist Church at 1230 hours. Standards are
requested to attend
.............................
It is with regret that we inform you that Cpl R PUGH-COOK of Droitwich died on 27 August 2012
aged 73. He served as a National Serviceman with 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment in
British Honduras 1957 – 1959 and later became a director of Tomkinson’s Carpets in Kidderminster.
For those wishing to write in condolence his widow’s address is held by RHQ.
...................................
The funeral of Mrs Bronwyn Price wife of ex Sgt Jim Price 1 WFR is to be held at Wilford Hill
Crematorium, Nottingham on Tuesday 18 September 2012 at 1400 hours. Following the committal a
wake is to be held at Foresters House to which all mourners are cordially invited.
.....................
It is with sadness that we inform you that Joe Bullock, Worcestershire Regiment has passed away on 15th August 2012. Joe was born 3. 3. 1924, he was conscripted into the Worcesters and served in Burma. At the end of hostilities he rejoined civilian life. His funeral service will be at 2.30 pm St Barnabas Church Worcester on Friday 31st August, with internment at Astwood Cemetry. Standards welcome.
......................
It with sadness that we inform you that 23982884 Cpl Patrick Greenan, 1 WORC R and later 1 WFR died on 19th July 2012 aged 66. Paddy joined 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment on 6 Sep 1963 and served with it in Gibraltar, Tobruk , Cyprus and UK . He served after amalgamation with 1 WFR and left the Army in May 1971.
His funeral is to take place at Worcester Crematorium on the 10th Aug 2012 at 1430 hours. Branch Standards are welcome to attend.
...................................
It is with sadness we inform you that 22672858 Cpl Peter Arbon JEFFREY of Ilkeston, Derbyshire
died on 29 July 2012 aged 78. Peter joined the 2nd Battalion The Sherwood Foresters as a National
Serviceman in 1951 and was discharged in 1954. On leaving the Army he worked for Derbyshire
Fire and Rescue Service. Peter was a former Borough Councillor and Mayor of Erewash and was a
founder member and Branch Secretary of Ilkeston Branch WFRA.
His funeral is to take place at Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane, Bramcote, Nottinghamshire
NG9 3GJ at 1315 hours on Wednesday 8 August 2012. In accordance with the family’s wishes,
only Ilkeston Branch Standard is to be paraded
.............................
It is with regret that we inform you that 24344521 Dmr John Peter EDWARDS of Colchester, Essex
died on 17 July 2012 aged 55. John joined WFR in 1974 and after training at the Depot in Lichfield,
was posted to the Infantry Demonstration Battalion at Warminster until he was old enough in 1975
to be posted to the 1st Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters in Ballykelly, Northern
Ireland. He served in NI, Colchester and Belize before leaving the Army in May 1979. Brother of
WO2 Ian (Eddie) Edwards and LCpl Mick Edwards.
The funeral is to take place on Thursday 26 July 2012 at St Andrew’s Church, Forest Road,
Greenstead, Colchester CO4 3XG at 1415 hours followed by committal at 1530 hours at Weeley
Crematorium, Colchester Road, Clacton on Sea CO16 9JP. All mourners are invited afterwards to
the Greenstead Social Club, Blackthorn Avenue, Colchester CO4 3QD to join the family in
remembering John.
..........................
It is with sadness that we inform you that 24177576 LCpl Anthony PITT of Whitbourne,
Worcestershire died on 17 July 2012 aged 63. Tony joined the 1st Battalion The Worcestershire
Regiment in 1969 and after amalgamation served in 1 Platoon A Company The Worcestershire and
Sherwood Foresters Regiment. He served in UK, NI and BAOR and left the Army in 1978.
..................................
It is with regret we inform you that 22219422 Cpl Peter Colley of Brierley Hill, Dudley, West Midlands died on 28 June 2012. Peter served with The Worcestershire Regiment Band from 1948 to 1956 before being posted to The South Staffords for his last two years of service.
..............................
Funeral
The funeral of Sgt Stephen Kinson 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters and Treasurer Ilkeston Branch WFRA who died on 23 June 2012 is to take place on Tuesday 10 July 2012 at 1200 hours at Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane, Bramcote, Nottingham NG9 3GJ. The Ilkeston Branch Standard will be on parade.
It is with sadness we report that 14165488 Sgt Stephen KINSON of Ilkeston, Derbyshire died on 23
June 2012 aged 88. Stephen enlisted into the 2ndt Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in April 1947
at Nathania in Palestine. In 1949 he was seconded to the Royal Leicester Regiment and served
with it in Hong Kong and Korea before being posted back to 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in
May 1953. He remained with the 1st Battalion, serving in Malaya, UK and Cyprus before leaving the
Army in March 1969.
..........................
It is with sadness we inform you that 22307650 CSgt Albert BIGGS of Trowell, Nottinghamshire died
on 14 June 2012 aged 79. Albert joined 3rd Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters
Regiment (V) in October 1971 and served with B and D Coys at Beeston and HQ Coy Newark until
he left in 1984. Prior to joining 3 WFR (V) Albert served with the Kings Royal Hussars from 1950 –
55 and for a short period during the Suez Crisis. His funeral is to take place at The Main Chapel,
Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane, Bramcote, Nottingham on Monday 25 June 2012 at 1100
hours. The family have requested no flowers but donations may be made to RBL or 3 WFR Branch
of the Association through A W Lymn, 113 Cotmanhay Road, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 8NG.
............................
It is with regret we inform you that 14871069 Pte William TEAGUE of Worcester died on 5
December 2010 aged 84. William joined The Worcestershire Regiment in 1945 and was posted to
the 7th Battalion in India and served in the Pioneer platoon. In October 1946 he was involved with
the Battalion in dealing with serious communal rioting in Calcutta for ten weeks and in March 1947
when the 7th Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment was disbanded he was transferred to The
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire regiment to complete his Army service.
.....................
It is with regret that we inform you that Lt Col (Retd) Douglas Noy SCOTT of Andover died on 27
May 2012 aged 92. Duggie was commissioned into The Sherwood Foresters in March 1939 and
served with the 2nd Battalion in France and Belgium. After evacuation he served at the Home
Service Depot with the 10th and 15th Battalions before moving to India and being appointed as
GSO3 Control Officers, India/Burma/Raiding Forces. In 1945 he served as Adjt with the 1st Bn The
Buffs before returning to the 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in Goslar, Germany in 1948.
From 1949 -51 he served with GHQ FARELF before being posted to 2nd Battalion The Sherwood
Foresters in 1952. He then attended Staff College in 1953 before moving to GHQ MELF where he
served until 1956 before returning to take up the post of Training Major at Normanton Barracks. He
then went with 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters to Malaya until 1960 when he moved to
Nottingham University as Training Major. His last posting before retirement in 1969 was as SO1
(PT) HQ BAOR.
A Thanksgiving service for Douglas is to be held on Friday 29 June 2012 at St Mary’s Church,
Andover SP10 1DP at 1400 hours. Donations for Help for Heroes to S & J Maddocks, Station
Approach, Andover SP10 3HN Tel: 01264 355600
..................
It is with sadness we inform you that 25013219 Pte Mark Gregory BANNISTER of Gainsborough,
Lincolnshire died on 5 June 2012 aged 38. Mark enlisted into the 1st Battalion The Worcestershire
and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in 1992 and served with it in Bosnia, Kosovo and Northern
Ireland before leaving the Army in 1999.
...............................................................................................................
It is with regret that we inform you that 23248517 LCpl Kenneth LEA of Nottingham died on 17 May
2012 aged 76. Ken joined the Sherwood Foresters as a National Serviceman on 16 August 1955
and was discharged on 15 August 1958. After his Army service he worked at the Sugar Factory in
Newark before becoming a lorry driver. His last job before retiring was as caretaker at Milford
Primary School in Clifton.
His funeral is to take place at 1115 hours on Friday 1 June 2012 at Bramcote Crematorium,
Coventry Lane, Bramcote. Standards are invited.
.................................................................................................
It is with regret we report that Captain Neville Parker WILDGUST of Lambley, Nottinghamshire died
on 22 April 2012 aged 89. Neville served with the 70th Battalion Sherwood Foresters in 1940 before
being granted an emergency commission with the Green Howards. He then re-joined the 16th
Battalion Sherwood Foresters in 1942 before being posted to the 6th Battalion Lincolnshire
Regiment. He was severely wounded in Sedjenane, Tunisia in March 1943 and was hospitalised
until September 1944 when he was medically downgraded to administration duties only and offered
discharge. He opted to remain in the Army and finished his service with 11 Battalion York and
Lancashire Regiment. He was a stalwart member of the 2nd/5th Sherwood Foresters Wartime
Branch WFRA
His funeral is to take place on Tuesday 15 May at 1100 hours at Holy Trinity Parish Church, 36
Church Street, Lambley NG4 4QB
.................................................................................................
It is with regret that we report the death of 25169707 LCpl Gordon Quigley 1 MERCIAN who was killed in
a road traffic accident on Sunday 15 April 2012.
Funeral details will be promulgated when known.
.......................................................................................
It is with sadness that we notify you that 22582490 Cpl. Joe Gandy who served with the 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment 1950 - 1957 and was a Malayan Veteran. He passed away in the early hours of Monday the 16th April 2012.
For those wishing to write in condolence to his wife Hazel, her address is 21, Scholars Walk, Droitwich , Worc`s. WR9 9LD
The funeral will take place at 13:00 Hrs, on Friday the 4th of May at St Nicholas` Church, Ombersley Rd, Droitwich Spa. WR9 8JE. Sat Nav. 52°16'2.51", -2°9'26.55" Opposite the railway station. Branch Standards are welcome
http://www.britishpathe.com/video/malayan-jungle-patrol-aka-malaya-report
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It is with sadness that we notify you that Cpl C J ‘Ciggy’ Harvey 22492447 who served with the
Worcestershire Regiment in Malaya, as the Commanding Officer’s driver, died on 3 April 2012.
For those wishing to write in condolence to his wife Jean, her address is 17 Hednesford Road, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 1JP.
His funeral is to take place at St Augustine’s Church, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 2AB on Wednesday
18 April at 1130 hours. Branch Standards Welcome.
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It is with sadness we inform you that 2 Lt John GOATLY of Fernhurst, West Sussex died on 31
March 2012 aged 94. John (Hoppy) joined the 1/5th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in February
1940 and went with it as part of the BEF to France before being evacuated through Brittany some
time after France had fallen. He then went with the Battalion to the Far East where he served as the
battalion intelligence officer in Singapore. John was taken prisoner by the Japanese from hospital
on 15 February 1942 after being wounded in the left lower leg by a bullet at Bukit Timah. He was
placed in work group 7, at Kanburi and held in various working camps until released in 1945. His
funeral is to take place at St Margaret’s Church, Fernhurst, West Sussex on Wednesday 11 April
2012 at 1300 hours.
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It is with deep sadness we report that Captain Rupert William Michael BOWERS 2 MERCIAN aged
25 was KIA on Wednesday 21 March 2012. Rupert was commissioned into the 1st Battalion The
Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters in April 2007 and after attending the Platoon commanders’
Battle Course he joined it in Afghanistan on OH6 where his actions resulted in him being ‘Mentioned
in Despatches’. He returned to Afghanistan in 2009 on OH10 with A (Grenadier) Coy and was
wounded in action. During OH15, his third tour, he was embedded with the Afghan National Army
when he was caught up in an explosion from an IED.
Although not yet confirmed, it is anticipated that the repatriation will take place at Brize Norton on
Thursday 29 March 2012. Anyone wishing to attend should contact RHQ.
Funeral details will be promulgated when known.
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It is with regret that we notify you that Major Tony ASTLE who served with 3 WFR(V) as Training
Major in 1979/80 died on Saturday 17 March 2012. His funeral is to take place at Blacon
Crematorium in Chester on Friday 30 March 2012 at 1500 hours followed by a reception in the
Regimental Club at RHQ Chester.
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It is with regret that we report that Lt David Warwick SPEED of Allestree, Derby died on 7 February
2011 aged 77. David was a National Service Officer who joined the 1st Battalion The Sherwood
Foresters and served in Malaya. On leaving the Army he became a Chartered Accountant and
Managing Director.
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It is with regret we report that 4986533 Cpl Eric STONE of Ilkeston died on 7 February 2012 aged
90. Eric enlisted in 1940 and served with The Sherwood Foresters in Malta, North Africa and Italy.
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It is with sadness that we report that Derek Marsh of Colchester passed away suddenly on the 15th February 2012. Dereks wife Angela was with Derek in his last moments. He was very popular and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with Angela and family at this sad time.
Angela will announce the funeral at a later date. A fuller obituary will be written when we have Derek`s service history.
RHQ Newsletter.
It is with sadness we report that 23946121 Cpl Derek MARSH of Colchester died on 15 February
2012 aged 67. Derek joined 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in 1962 and continued to serve
on amalgamation in 1970 with The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment until
transferring in 1972 to the Royal Hampshire Regiment. He served with 1 FORESTERS and 1WFR
in UK, Cyprus and BAOR and NI and Hong Kong with 1R HAMPS. Funeral details will be
promulgated when known.
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It is with regret that we report that 22326405 Pte Richard FAULKNER of Worcester died on 18
February 2012 aged 80. Richard served with 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment in Malaya
with 12 Pl D Coy 1950 – 53 and was wounded in a ‘blue on blue incident’ with B Coy near Tenang.
For those wishing to write in condolence to his wife Pamela, her address is; 21 Ronkswood
Crescent, Worcester WR5 1JY. The funeral is to take place at 1145 hours at St Walston Church,
Cranham Drive, Worcester followed by a committal at Worcester Crematorium at 1230 hours.
Standards welcome.
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It is with sadness we report that 5252486 Pte R G HODGETTS MM of Worcester died on 27
October 2011 aged 91. He enlisted in the TA in 1939 and served with 8th Battalion The
Worcestershire Regiment in France in 1940 until evacuated from Dunkirk in June. He was later sent
as a reinforcement to 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment in North Africa and was taken PoW
when Tobruk fell in June 1942. In late 1942 he was transferred to a PoW camp in Italy from which
he absconded after the Italian surrender in September 1943. He was recaptured twice but escaped
again on each occasion. He was awarded the MM for his courageous escape activities. On
returning home after hostilities ceased in Italy he was transferred to the RAOC until demobilisation
after the war.
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It is with regret that we report that Mrs Zena James, widow of Maj H H H James The Worcestershire
Regiment, died on 15 February 2012. Her funeral is to take place at Woking Crematorium at 1230
hours 8 March 2012.
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It is with sadness that we report that Mrs Gillian Blake, wife of Lt Col Jeremy Blake late
WFR/Mercian Volunteers, died on 22 February 2012. Funeral details will be promulgated when
known.
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It is with regret that we inform you that Captain Kenneth William JOHNSON of Southend-on-Sea,
Essex died on 31 January 2012 aged 91. Johnny was commissioned into the Royal Artillery and
was then transferred to 2nd/5th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in Italy in October 1944 and
appointed OC A Coy. He was involved in the last few battles of the Gothic Line Assault before
moving to Greece, Italy and Austria with the Battalion.
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It is with sadness we report that Mrs Mary Rochford of Upton on Severn died 24 January 2012 aged
84. Mary was the wife of Terence Rochford Worc R. A service is to be held on Mon 6 February
2012 at St Joseph’s Church, Upton on Severn at 1100 hours.
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It is with sadness that we inform you that Lt William Anthony Darrel HOYLE of Jordans,
Buckinghamshire died on 15 January 2012. Tony joined the Sherwood Foresters in 1942 and
served in the ranks with both 1st and 2nd Bns. In 1943 he was commissioned into the 1st Battalion
Sherwood Foresters before moving to 14th Battalion in April 1944. He was wounded at San Savino
in September 1944 and spent his next six months in hospital. On being released from hospital he
was attached to the 2/5th Battalion The Leicestershire Regiment in April 1945. He returned to the 1st
Battalion Sherwood Foresters in October 1945 and left the Army in November 1946. His funeral is
to take place at Amersham Crematorium on 30 January 2012 at 1130 hours. For those wishing to
write in condolence, Mrs W Hoyle’s address is held by RHQ.
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It is with regret that we inform you that Lt Col Derek LESTER of Wirksworth, Derbyshire died on 25
January 2012. Derek was commissioned into The Sherwood Foresters in May 1946 and then
served with the Special Air Service 1955 to 1957, the Trucial Oman Scouts 1962 to 1964, then with
MI 6 in 1965. He then served with the Infantry Junior Leaders Battalion 1966 to 1967 before being
posted as a Lt Col with Quatar Armed Forces in 1968. This was followed by an appointment as a
Col Chief of Staff in 1972. Derek retired from the Army in April 1978.
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IT IS WITH SADNESS WE REPORT THAT 23014886 PTE. ALBERT ERNEST BIGGS OF WORCESTER, PASSED AWAY ON WEDNESDAY 4TH OF JANUARY 2012. ALBERT SERVED IN THE WORCESTERSHIRE REGIMENT 24-03-1954 TO 24-03-57. FUNERAL SERVICE AT THE HOLY TRINITY AND ST MATHEWS, RONKSWOOD, WORCESTER. WR5 1NW. ON WEDNESDAY 18TH JANUARY 2012 AT 11AM. FOLLOWED BY INTERNMENT AT 12:00HRS AT ASTWOOD CEMETERY WORCESTER WR3 8HA.
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It is with regret that we inform you that Mrs Judith AYRES, daughter of the Late Brig P G M Litton
OBE Colonel WFR 1977 – 1983, died on Thursday 8 December 2011. Her funeral is to take place at
St Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Shinfield, Reading, Berkshire RG2 9BY on Tuesday 20 December
2011 at 14:00 hours
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It is with sadness we report that 5254043 Sgt James Thomas NORTON MM of Bournemouth, Hants
died on Saturday 10 December 2011 aged 92. Jim enlisted in October 1939 and after training joined
the Signals Platoon 11 Worc R and landed with it in Normandy in June 1944 after it had been redesignated
1 Worc R. He was awarded the Military Medal in 1945 and his citation reads “Throughout
Op Veritable from 11 Feb 45 onwards, Sgt Norton set an example of devotion to duty and initiative
that was quite outstanding. On 16 Feb at Berkhofel, after a successful attack by the Bn, line had to
be laid to Coys whose exact positions were still unknown. Under continuous and heavy shell and
mortar fire of the whole area, this NCO led a line party which worked all night and finally succeeded
in establishing communications forward. By the time the battle reached Imigshot on the 18 Feb, the
line section was becoming very tired, so he frequently went out, always under heavy fire, to reestablish
contact with the Coys. This was done entirely on his own initiative, and reported to the
Signals Officer only after the task had been completed. The success of this series of operations was
done in no small part to the maintenance of communications. Sgt Norton by his personal effort,
initiative and courage during this very strenuous and trying period so helped to inspire his platoon
that operations never suffered for lack of communications.” Jim was also Mentioned in Despatches
and awarded a C-in-C’s Certificate.
His funeral is to take place at 13:00 hours on Thursday 22 December 2011 at Oakley Wood
Crematorium, Bishops Tachbrook, Leamington Spa CV33 9QP. Family flowers only, but donations
may be made to ‘The Mercian Regimental Charity’ and forwarded to RHQ MERCIAN. Heath
Avenue, Whittington Barracks, Lichfield, Staffs WS14 9TJ.
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_The funeral of LCpl Steven Charles (Hemmo) HEMMINGS of Carlton, Nottingham who died on 25
mourners are invited to join the family at The Chesterfield Arms, 50 Main Road, Carlton NG4 3H
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From RHQ
It is with sadness that we report that 30144038 Pte Matthew Sean James HASELDIN of Settle, Yorkshire was KIA in Afghanistan on Thu 3 November 2011 aged 21. Matthew enlisted into The Mercian Regiment in February 2011 and was posted to the 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment in August 2011 where he served with C Coy and in September he deployed with the Battalion to Afghanistan . Matthew was KIA in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province while on an operation to maintain freedom of movement for the local population, when his patrol came under attack from insurgents and he sustained a fatal gunshot wound. Matthew is to be repatriated through Brize Norton on Thursday 10 November 2011.
For those wishing to write in condolence, all correspondence should be addressed to Mr Alan Haseldin, c/o Capt J Pickering, RHQ MERCIAN, Heath Avenue, Whittington Barracks, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS14 9TJ.
4 November 2011 Last updated at 18:34 Share this pageEmailPrint
Shot British soldier named by MoD
Pte Haseldin
PM's Afghan exit 'change in tone'
A British soldier shot dead in Afghanistan has been named as Pte Matthew Haseldin, from 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment.
He was killed on Thursday in Nahr-e Saraj District, Helmand Province, the Ministry of Defence said.
Pte Haseldin, 21, from Settle in North Yorkshire, was taking part in a patrol when it was attacked by insurgents.
His death takes the total number of service personnel killed in Afghanistan since 2001 to 384.
Pte Haseldin joined the army in February and was deployed to Afghanistan in September.
His parents, Alan and Jill, said: "Matthew was a loving son and we are very proud of him. He had only been in the Army for a few months. Friends and family will miss him greatly. Rest in peace."
'Hugely popular'
Lt Col Colin Marks, commanding officer of 2 Mercian Regiment, said Pte Haseldin "stood out as a young man of immense character" who had travelled widely.
He said: "Hugely popular, it was impossible to tell that he was the newest member of 7 Platoon, all of whom loved him like a brother. One of the team, Matthew was at the centre of most things and enjoyed a game of cards during precious rest periods.
"Steadfast in battle, Matthew faced more challenges in the few short weeks he spent in Helmand than many soldiers experience in a lifetime. He died standing firm in the face of a determined enemy, in the highest traditions of The Mercian Regiment."
Pte Haseldin was part of an operation to maintain freedom of movement for the local population, when the group was attacked by insurgents.
His battalion is responsible for keeping open Route 611, which is a key "main supply route" linking Gereshk city with other district centres in Helmand province and beyond, including Kandahar City.
On Thursday morning his patrol was carrying out a check when they came under sustained attack from small arms and grenades during which Pte Haseldin was fatally wounded, the Ministry of Defence said.
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It is with sadness that we inform you that 14189154 WO1 (RSM) George Claude MORGAN of
Nottingham died on Tuesday 1 November 2011 aged 83. Gerry enlisted in 1946 into the South Wales
Borderers and transferred to 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in October 1946. In 1953 he was
posted to the 2nd Battalion in Celle as CQMS B Coy and then in 1957 was posted to the 8th Battalion
Sherwood Foresters as CSM. Gerry then went to Malaya with the 1st Battalion as Weapon Training
Warrant Officer before taking up the appointment of CSM A Coy in Burma Camp in 1959. In 1961 he
was appointed CSM HQ Coy. He was appointed RQMS at Colchester in 1964 before being posted to
5th/8th Battalion Sherwood Foresters as RSM in 1965. He finished his career as RSM at the Depot in
Lichfield in 1968. His funeral is to take place at Wilford Hill Crematorium on Wednesday 9
November 2011 at 1400 hours
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It is with regret that we notify you of the recent death of 14821952 Pte Wilfred Yeatman, who served with the 2nd Battalion The Sherwood Foresters 1943 - 1948. His funeral is to take place on Thursday 29 September 2011 at 2:00 pm at Bramcote Crematorium, Bramcote, Nottinghamshire. The family would appreciate it if Standards could be paraded
It is with sadness we report that 23832410 Cpl Basil APPLEYARD of Shirebrook, Nottinghamshire died on 14 September 2011 aged 74. Baz served with 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters and continued to serve with 1st Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment on amalgamation in 1970. He left the Army on 31 August 1977. His funeral is to take place at Holy Trinity Church, Shirebrook on Monday 26 September 2011 at 1230 hours followed by internment at Shirebrook Cemetery at 1315 hours and the family would appreciate the attendance of Association members and Standard Bearers. For those wishing to write in condolence his son Ian, can be contacted at 57 SlantLane, Shirebrook, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG20 8QN
I report with sadness the death of Major J.M.(Jock) AFFLECK ex 2nd Bn (1933-41)and 7th Bn.
Jock died on 20th May 2011 after a short illness at the Ulster Hospital(nr Belfast)
He just reached his 95th birthday on 22nd April this year. Jock's army number was originally 5249669 and when commissioned 161369. He served with 2nd Bn in China and India. He had a short spell in the UK with 7th Bn.,before being posted to the KSLI/Herefordshire Regt.His next posting as to the Royal Indian Army Service Corps with service in Burma 43-45.Jock settled in Bangor, N.Ireland after the war and in 1971 at the age of 55 years served for 2 years in the Ulster Defence Regiment.His wishes were that his remains be used for medical research and for this reason a funeral has yet to be arranged.A service of thanksgiving is expected to be arranged for the future.
Would you kindly forward this information to the Regimental family.
Regards
Billy (WILLIAM BEST). UDR.
Message recieved 21st May 2011
.
(amended 6th June to age at death 95yrs not 88) ........................................................................................................................................
Ron Harris, W.F.R.A. Secretary, Kidderminster Branch .
Sadly passed away, July 29th 2011.
Funeral at St Mary`s Church, Kidderminster.
10 am , 11th August 2011.
More details to follow.
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It is with sadness we report that 22596257 Pte Arthur SLATER of Halesowen, West Midlands died on
12 August 2011 aged 78. Arthur served with 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment as a National
Serviceman from 1951 to 1953 in Support company in Malaya. For those wishing to write in
condolence his wife, Margaret can be contacted at 67 Dunstall Road, Halesowen, West Midlands B63
1BD.
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It is with sadness we report that Lieutenant David Elvin RANCE of Boreham, Essex died on 20 August
