12 OBITUARIES 14/01/2022 

12th July 2024   It is with great sadness that we inform you that 24795405 WOII (CSM) Graham ‘Ted’ Johnson, of Gainsborough, Lincolnshire died on 7 July 2024 aged 55.   Ted was born in BMH Hannover and lived in Retford prior to joining the 1st Bn WFR on 20 Jan 1987.  He served in various locations throughout the world with the Regiment and then with the 2nd Bn, The Mercian Regiment, upon amalgamation. He also served with the RRT at Chilwell.  Ted was awarded a Mention in Despatches in 2002 for gallantry.  He was also awarded the UN Medal Cyprus, GSM NI (including oak leave), the NATO former Yugoslavia  2nd numeral, the NATO Medal with Clasp Former Yugoslavia, the Operational Service Medal Afghanistan with clasp, the Accumulated Service Medal and the LS&GC.  Ted was discharged from the Army on 27 Mar 2011.  He then worked as an Operations Manager in Iraq and for Lincolnshire Police in the Control Room.  He leaves behind,  his wife Emma and their daughter Aimee and his older daughter Bryce, step-sons Matthew & Joshua and grandchild, Scarlett .  Messages of condolence can be sent to Emma at Elj5405@yahoo.co.uk  The funeral of Graham ‘Ted’ Johnson, who died on 7 July will take place on Tuesday 30 July 2024 at 1130 hours at Lea Fields Crematorium, Gainsborough Road, Lea, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire DN21 5PL. The family have requested no flowers and donations can be made on the day to St Barnabas Hospice, Lincoln. The wake will be held at Thonock Park Golf Club, The Belt Road, Thonock, Gainsborough,, Lincolnshire DN21 1PZ. All members of the Regimental Family are invited to both the funeral and the wake.  Standard Bearers are requested.

29th June 2024.   Funeral Details The funeral of Derek "Chippy" Wood will take place at 14.30hrs on Tuesday 16 July 2024 at the Wyre Forest Crematorium, Minster Rd, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 8DE. Flowers do not need to sent however donations to the Kemp Wyre Forest Hospice on behalf of Derek "Chippy" Wood using their homepage. https://donate.kemphospice.org.uk/

21st June 2024  Lieutenant Colonel Richard John Lees OBE MC 26th September 1946 – 6th June 2024 Dick Lees was born in Wookey Hole and educated at Wells Cathedral School before joining Bristol Siddeley. He joined the 11th Hussars as a trooper and was sent to Sandhurst. On completion of Sandhurst training he was commissioned into the Worcestershire Regiment on 15th December 1967. Following his initial platoon commander experience he was posted to 66 Army Youth Team in Worcester at which time his interest and expertise for Adventure Training become very apparent. He had a lifelong interest in canoeing, sailing (both offshore and dinghy) mountain walking, skiing and climbing. He was also a member of the 1WFR team that won the Army Orienteering Championship. Returning to the newly amalgamated 1st Battalion the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in 1971 he was the Demonstration Platoon Commander in A Company in Warminster and for 1WFR’s first tour in Londonderry in 1972. This was followed by a tour at Depot Lichfield as the Expedition Skills Wing Commander before returning to 1WFR to be the Recce/COP Platoon commander in Ballykelly. It was for his excellent leadership and the platoon’s work there that he was awarded the Military Cross, gazetted on 12th October 1976, the third generation of his family to receive that award. In 1978 he spent a year at the Royal Military College of Science, Shrivenham, followed by a year at the Army Staff College, Camberley to gain the psc+ staff qualification and was posted to Headquarters Cyprus as the G2 SD/Trg before returning to 1WFR as A Company commander in 1982 in Hemer, West Germany, for a very busy two years of armoured warfare interrupted by a tour in West Belfast. After two years as the Chief Instructor of New College, the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, he took command of 3rd (Territorial) Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in Newark in 1987. His final tour was as a staff officer in Headquarters I (BR) Corps in Bielefeld where he was awarded the OBE in 1991 for his work towards the deployment during the first Gulf War. At that time the Cold War was ending which prompted a change of career and he retired. His year long resettlement course was in boat building in East Anglia. Initially a student, he became Executive Director of the International Boat Building Training College in Lowestoft and a consultant on European directives in the boating industry. While mastering the exacting skills of building wooden boats he also rebuilt and renovated a timber framed barn. Settling in Norfolk he also made furniture and helped his new friends with building projects and learned wood carving. We was elected Chair of his Parish Council. Using his computer skills learned in the Army he and his brother build a website to inform people and change government police regarding the dangers of asbestos in schools. His funeral will be at 1100 on Saturday 6th July at St Mary's Church Ellingham, Bungay, NR35 2ER. Letters of condolence can be sent to his brother Michael at: michaellees1262@gmail.com or to Michael Lees at Station Farm Barn, Ellingham, Bungay NR35 2EW.

Obituary  Dave Footitt It is with great sadness that we report the death of Dave Footitt who died peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on 14 June 2024 aged 72 years.  Dave served with 1WFR from February 1970 until April 1976.  Dave Joined 3WFR and was discharged on 12 Sept 1988. Dave's funeral service will take place at Barnby Moor Crematorium on Wednesday 3 July 2024 at 10.00hrs. Please wear something colourful as black attire not essential. Further enquiries please contact our office on Retford 01777 707503.

Obituary  24493434 L/Cpl Derek "Chippy" Wood It is with great sadness that we report the death of Derek "Chippy" Wood who died on Sunday 16 June 2024 after a short illness.  Derek served with 1WFR from 1978 until 1990. Further details to follow.

17th May 2024   It is with sadness that we inform you that Worcester branch member 23210811 Cpl John Brian Tomlinson of Yate, Bristol, passed away aged 87 years in Southmead Hospital, Bristol on Friday 3rd May 2024. John enlisted into Sherwood Foresters Cadet Force at Beeston Notts on the 20th April 1951 winning Unit Efficiency Shield in 1952, also winning the Sword of Honour 1953 and reaching the rank of CSM. On 29th June 1954 John enlisted into the Royal Engineers commencing induction training at Norton Barracks at Worcester. 1954 he served at Southwood Camp Farnborough. 1957 field Troop Maralinga, South Australia . On talking with the RE Association John Had given an interview on the Nuclears Tests at Maralinga, Australia. 1958 UK 22 Regt Chiseldon Camp Swindon. 1959 East Africa, Aden, Oman and Somalia. 1960 Aden / Ind Field group. 1961 UK Ripon North Yorks.During his service he gained Army trades, Combat Engineer Class B. Craft operator Class B, Specialist Driver Class A. John was awarded the GSM clasp 9Arabian peninsular) John Discharged on medical grounds on 8th February 1963. In Civilian life John was a welder on construction and engineering sites , field and workshops. Building erector on modular structures. Shop fitting and carpentry. In later years John was on contracts in Kuwait 1980, Berlin West Germany 1992, in building and carpentry. Some years ago John was looking for a veterans community and got in touch with the W.F.R.A. Asst Regt Sec and got the details to join Worcester Branch of which John was a valued and dedicated member who attended functions, events and Branch Regimental dinners with his wife Meredith. Whilst healthy he was a regular attendee of the branch meetings making his journeys from Bristol come rain or shine. John`s funeral will take place at 12:30 on Friday 14th June 2024 at Bristol Memorial Woodlands, Earthcott Green, Alveston. Bristol BS35 3TA. Bugler, Standards and members welcome. Members are welcomed afterwards next to the chapel at the Memorial Woodlands (Reception) BS35 3TA Letters of condolence can be sent to:- Mrs Meredith Tomlinson 72 Kent Avenue, Yate, Bristol. BS37 7RZ.

OBITUARY  It is with great sadness that we report the death of 24134258 Pte Peter Spenceley on the 25th April 2024 in South Wales, Peter joined the Junior Soldiers Battalion Shorncliffe Folkestone in 1967-1969 and joined the Worcestershire Regiment. On Amalgamation he was posted to Brecon platoon as part of the Demonstration Battalions duties to the Infantry Battle School. He served on the WFR first tour of NI and Berlin where he then transferred to the Army Air Corp on 20 January 1975 and completed his 22 years Regular Service. 
Peter's funeral is on Tuesday 21 May 12:00 hrs Llwydcoed Crematorium, Aberdare, CF44 0DJ.  Followed by a Wake at Brecon Working Mens Club, Watergate, Brecon LD3 9AN All are welcome to attend the service and wake. 

FUNERAL OF MARGARET SIBCY The funeral of Margaret, who died on 28 April (Issue 18) will take place on Thursday  30 May at 1045 hours at the Hope Community Methodist Church (AKA Barnbygate Chapel), Barnbygate, Newark NG24 1PX.  This is followed by a cremation at Sherwood Forest Crematorium, Newark Rd, Ollerton, Notts NG22 0DY at 1200 hours.   The Wake will be held at the Newark Services Club (formerly RAFA Club), 23a London Rd, Newark NG24 1TN.  The Club will open at 1220 hrs noon for those not travelling to the Crematorium, with those who will be, joining later.  Please note that the club is not visible from London Rd. It is accessible via the London Road car park, and then behind the Odeon Cinema. Parking charges apply and the machines take cash. All regimental mourners and Standards are welcome to attend.  Family flowers only.  Donations are welcomed and will be jointly split between  the Mercian Benevolent Fund and the Crich Memorial Fund. Mercian Regiment Benevolent Charity.  Sort Code: 16 19 26. Account Number: 20000562.  Reference: Sibcy Crich Memorial Fund. Sort Code 16-19-26.  Account Number: 19996670. Reference: Sibcy

10th May 2024.  It is with great sadness that we inform you that 23210811 Cpl John Brian Tomlinson of Yate, Bristol, passed away in Bristol Hospital on Friday 3 May 2024.  John was a member of Worcester Branch.Further details to follow.

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of 24169372 Sgt Kenneth Holmes aged 77. Kenneth served with the Worcestershire Regiment and 1WFR in Belize.  He was promoted to Corporal in 1978 and Sergeant in 1981.  In 1984 Kenneth was Sgt at the Army Careers Information Office in Derby. Kenneth was discharged on 8 March 1991. Kenneth's funeral is on Friday 17 May 2024, 10.30hrs at The Sacred Heart Church, 13 Queen's Avenue, Tunstall, Stoke on Trent ST6 6EE followed by interment at Milton Crematorium Leek Road, Milton, Stoke on Trent ST2 7AB. If you wish to attend please meet at the Church.

FUNERAL DETAILS  C/Sgt Henderson ‘Andy’ BRADSHAW The funeral of Andy, who died on 10 April (Issue 16) will take place on 14 May 2024 at 1145 hours at Edmonton Baptish Church, The Green, Monmouth Road, London N9 0LS.  This will be followed at 1400 hours at Enfield Crematorium, Great Cambridge Road, Enfield EN1 4DS.  The wake will take place at 1530 hours at the Regency Banqueting Suite, 113 Bruce Grove, London- N17 6UR.  All are welcome to attend including Standard Bearers.  Live streaming of the funeral, via zoom, is also available from 1145 hours.  Meeting ID: 885 9572 2297.  Passcode: 446084

3rd May 2024 It is with great sadness that we inform you that Margaret Sibcy, of Newark, died on 28 April.  Margaret was the sister of a Sherwood Foresters and went along with him and his wife, to a WFRA meeting in 1994.  She later became the branch Secretary and remained so for almost 30 years, until the branch disbanded. 
Funeral details will follow when known.

19th April 2024  24111548 C/Sgt Henderson Bradshaw It is with great sadness that we report the death of 24111548 C/Sgt Henderson (Andy) Bradshaw of the Staffordshire, Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiments who died on April 10 2024. Henderson served in the Milan Platoon in Hemer, Germany.  He was a keen sportsman who played cricket and  competed in the Inter Coy Boxing Championships. Henderson also served as a PSI with B Coy 3WFR. Andy’s funeral will take place on Tuesday 14 May in Edmonton Crematorium North London at 12:00hrs.,
The family have requested a Bugler and Standard Bearers if possible.
Please contact Robert King on Facebook know as soon as possible so that this can be arranged.

29 March 2024    It is with great sadness that we inform you that 19003736 Pte Wilfred Henry Bradley died on 4 Feb 2024 aged 99.  Wilfred originally joined the General Service Corps before transferring to the Sherwood Foresters on 12 June 1945 .  He later transferred to the Royal Lincolnshire Regiment on 23 February 1947.  His funeral has taken place.          

OBITUARY  It is with sadness that we report that Sgt William James Reginald Morris passed away aged 85 years, on the 12th March 2024. William served in the Worcestershire Regiment and Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment serving 22yrs, discharged at the rank of Sgt. Whilst serving William  represented the Battalion as a cross country marathon runner. In civilian life William was a lorry driver. William`s funeral will be held at 15:00hrs  on Friday 5th April 2024, The Gedling Crematorium, Catfoot Lane, Lambley, Nottingham, NG4 4HQ.
Bugle, Standards and Association members welcome and invited afterwards to The Arrow, in Arnold, Gedling Road, Nottingham NG5 6NY. Letters of condolence can be sent to William`s daughter :- Linda Kelly and family. 76 Carmel Gardens, Nottingham. NG5 6LZ.

22nd March 2024   It is with sadness that we inform you that James ‘Jimmy’ Francis S BRENNAN of Frankley, Birmingham, died on 21 February 2024 aged 75.  Jimmy was born in Eire and came to England aged 16.  He joined the Worcestershire Regiment, aged 18, in 1966 and served in Mainland UK, NI, Germany and Gibraltar.  He served for 9 years and it is believe that he reached the rank of either LCpl or Cpl.
Jimmy' funeral will take place on Tuesday 26 March at 1400 hours at Waseley Hills Crematorium, New Inns Lane, Rubery, Birmingham, B45 9TS.  It has been requested that there are no flowers and donations can be made to Cancer Relief. The funeral will be followed by a Wake at the Greenlands Inn, 105 Longbridge Lane B31 4LF.  All association members are welcome and the family have asked if any Standard Bearers can attend

OBITUARY  It is with great sadness that we inform you that Paul ‘Chevy’ CHASE died on 13 March 2024 aged 42. Paul served with the Cheshire Regiment and amalgamated into The Mercian Regiment.

MEMORIAL SERVICE Lt Col JD Hetherington OstJ - Memorial Service 2 April 2024 - 
Letters of condolence should be sent to:  Mr and Mrs H Roome (Harry and Prue)
The Duchies,  Mill Lane,  Pirbright.   Surrey.  GU24 0BT The family would also be grateful of notification of intention to attend the Memorial Service on 2 April at 2.00pm at St Wynstans Church, Repton DE65 6FH and afterwards in the Undercroft at Repton School. To meet this request please inform Mark Dack at the Newsletter newsletter@stand-firm-strike-hard.org.uk so that appropriate arrangements can be made.The bridge over the River Trent at Willington is closed on 2nd & 3rd April. If you are approaching Repton from the South you should travel via Burton on Trent and Newton Solney, from the North via Derby and Aston on Trent and Milton and from the East via Ashby de la Zouch or Melbourne and Milton. .

15th March 2024   426234 Lt Col JOHN DAVID HETHERINGTON OStJ psc We regret to announce that Lt Col John Hetherington died on 8 March 2024 aged 90. John was born on 28 February 1934 and was educated at Haileybury and ISC in Hertfordshire. He was conscripted into the Army in May 1952, serving initially at Normanton Barracks and then at Budbrook Barracks in Warwick. He attended Eaton Hall Officer Cadet School in October 1952 and was commissioned as a National Service 2nd Lieutenant, joining 2nd Bn The Sherwood Foresters in Wuppertal on 10 January 1953. He was promoted to Lieutenant on 5 September 1954 and granted a Regular Commission in February 1955. After roles as A-Tk Pl Comd, Scout Pl Comd and MTO he became Regimental Signals Officer with the move of the 2nd Bn to Celle and then he was posted to the Regimental Depot in Derby in 1956 as a Training Officer. Post the amalgamation of the 1st and 2nd Bns John joined the 1st Bn in 1957 becoming the Regimental Signals Officer again as the battalion moved first to Malaya and then Singapore towards the end of the Malayan Confrontation. He was promoted to Captain in February 1961, taking over as Adjutant of the battalion a few months later on the Bn's move to Hollywood, Northern Ireland and then during their early days in Colchester, a time which included the emergency tour in Cyprus. From 1964-66 he underwent staff training, initially at the Royal Military College of Science at Shrivenham and then at the Indian Defence Services Staff College Wellington in Nilgri Hills, India. This was followed by promotion to Acting Major in January 1967 and appointment as Brigade Major of 151 Infantry Brigade (TA) in Middlesborough. In April 1967 he was given an emergency appointment as GSO 2(SD) at HQ BRITCON, HQ UNFICYP, Nicosia with promotion to substantive Major in December 1967. In August 1968 he rejoined 1st Bn The Sherwood Foresters, then serving as a Mechanised Battalion in 7 Armoured Brigade in Minden, West Germany, as OC C Company. Post amalgamation in January 1970 he became OC A Company in Warminster as 1WFR took on the role of Demonstration Battalion at the School of Infantry. A move to HQ Army Strategic Command at Wilton followed from September 1970 to January 1972 when, on his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, he assumed command of the 1st Bn The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in January 1972. Though the battalion were still in the Demonstration Battalion role in Warminster they were about to deploy to 8 Infantry Brigade in Londonderry in March 1972 for the first of many Op BANNER tours. Those who were with the Regiment at that time will remember a period of escalating violence in the Province and the Battalion's first casualties (2 killed and 10 seriously wounded). John then moved with the battalion to Berlin in July 1972 remaining in command until July 1974. During this time the battalion excelled in all sports at Brigade, Division, BAOR and Army levels. Post command from September 1974 until September 1976 he was GSO1 Plans SD and Trg in HQ Northern Ireland in Lisburn before moving to become GSO1 EPS and Trg in 1 (BR) Corps in Bielefeld. He left the Army under one of the Army's early redundancy packages in February 1979. In civilian life he retained his role as a Regimental Trustee until 1999, also taking on the additional posts of a Museum Trustee, a Crich Memorial Trustee, Deputy President of the Sherwood Foresters Association and Vice President of the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association. He took great pride in attending the Crich Memorial Service as a Trustee for 13 years wearing the same No1 Dress Jacket he was commissioned in. John was awarded the Order of St John of Jerusalem by HM The Queen in October 1987 for his work as Commander of St John's Ambulance for Derbyshire. In addition he was a Governor of Repton School from 1994 to 2003 and an Honorary Governor from 2003 to 2007. In retirement he indulged in his hobby of Carriage Driving and was involved with the Windsor Horse Show. A Memorial Service will take place on Tuesday 2nd April 2024 at 2pm at St Wynstans Church, Repton DE65 6FH and afterwards in the Undercroft at Repton School.  Details of a contact address for letters of condolence will follow. 

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of Stephen Mapletoft will be held at St Mark's Church, St Mark's Road, Brampton, Chesterfield. S40 1DH on Thursday 21 March 2024 at 14.15hrs.

8th March 2024   24539398 Pte Stephen John Mapletoft  It is with great sadness that we report the death of Stephen John Mapletoft who died on Monday 26 February. Stephen served with 1WFR in the Mortar Platoon and was discharged on 10 November 1995. Stephen holds the GSM NI and UN Cyprus medal. The details of Stephen's funeral will be published when known.

SERVICE OF THANKSGIVING  A Thanksgiving Service to celebrate the life of the late Brigadier R G Silk CBE is to be held at Repton School at 10.15 am on Sunday 23rd June 2024. This will be followed by refreshments in the 400 Hall Theatre Foyer: Brigadier Silk's family extend a warm welcome to all.  For catering purposes, those who wish to attend are asked to notify Ian Silk (i.silk@icloud.com) before Friday 7th June. Further details will be promulgated in due course.

1st March 2024  23257496 BDSM Peter Vaughan It is with sadness that I inform you that BDSM Peter Vaughan of Worcester passed away aged 86 on the 17th February 2024 at Worcester Royal Hospital. Peter enlisted into 1st Battalion the Worcestershire Regiment at Worcester and trained at Norton Barracks.  At 1st Battalion he was a Bandsman playing the euphonium. Peter went on to serve in Germany and went to Jamaica on the troop ship Dilwara. In civilian life Peter worked as a toolmaker at Metalbox Worcester.
In his spare time Peter was a member of a few brass bands that he enjoyed playing in. Peter`s funeral will take place on Wednesday 6th March 2024 at 11:30hrs. Worcester Crematorium,Tintern Avenue, Astwood road, Worcester. WR3 8HA.
Standards, Bugle and members welcome.
Afterwards members are welcome to the New Inn at Claines Worcester WR3 7DH

OBITUARY  It is with great sadness that we report the death of Mary Caiger, wife of the late Col John Caiger, of the 1st Staffords on 9 Feb 24 aged 87.
Beloved Mother to Jonathan, James and Charles, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Mary's funeral service will take place at the Church of St. Peter & St. Paul, Stoke Lacy on Friday 8th March at 12 noon. Enquiries to Emma Bouston Funeral Services, 3 New Road, Bromyard HR7 4AH (01885 489 900).

FUNERAL DETAILS FOR 4987704 CPL GRAEME TODD The funeral for Graeme ‘Sweeney’ Walter TODD, who died on 18 February 2024 (details on Issue 8), will take place on the 13  March at 1130 hours at Markeaton Crematorium, Markeaton Lane, Derby DE22 4NH.  This will be followed by a wake at 1230 hours at the Markeaton Pub, Kedleston Road, Allestree, Derby DE22 2TF.  The family have requested no flowers and have decided on donations that will be given for Alzheimer’s  and the Lifeboat Association.  Standard Bearers have been requested by the family and all members of the WFRA are invited to attend.  If anyone is able to attend, they are asked to let Mrs Todd know, for catering purposes, annetodd5@ntlworld.com.   

AMENDMENT TO THE OBITUARY OF PTE LUCAS Following on from the Obituary of Pte Lucas in Issue 8, please note that Pte Lucas was born in Bicester and not Banbury.  

23rd February 2024  23472653 Pte Frederick George ‘Freddie’ COSGROVE Freddie Cosgrove was born in London in 1938. After a childhood spent in children's homes he was called up for his National Service in Nottingham in April 1956 . After completing basic training, he was posted to 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters in Dempsey Barracks , Sennelager in Germany in January 1957. In January of the following year he returned with the battalion to the UK and then deployed with them to Malaya in June 1958. The battalion were stationed in Johore Bahru and carried out anti-terrorist patrols in the jungle for what turned out to be the last 2 years of the 12 year Malayan Emergency. Although Freddie had signed on for a 3rd years service, his time was up in May 1959 , when he returned to UK  and was discharged. After discharge he lived in Wrotham in Kent and worked variously, on the railways and as a long distance lorry driver. He met Bridie, his future wife, in 1974 and they married in 1983. In 2004  he and Bridie returned to Nottingham where he is remembered by all as a loyal member of the Malayan Veterans Branch of WFRA and a fanatical Nottingham Forest Supporter. His funeral will take place at 1400 hrs on Tuesday 5 March at Wilford Hill Cemetery, NG2 7FE, after which Bridie has invited mourners to the Willow Tree on Rufford Way, NG2 6LS.

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we let you know that 4987704 Cpl Graeme ‘Sweeney’ Walter TODD, of Derby, died on 18 February 2024 aged 92.  Sweeney was born in Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire where his father was serving with the RAF and in 1945  followed his brother (Donald Todd) into The Sherwood Foresters.  Sweeney was a bandsman with the 2nd Bn and 1st Bn and played the clarinet and saxophone and spent his career in the UK and Germany.  He left the army in 1958.  He then worked for United Biscuits working his way up to Area Manager, Sweeney married his wife, Anne, in 1955 and they had a son David. Messages of condolence can be sent to annetodd5@ntlworld.com.   Funeral details to follow.

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we inform you that 24578183 Pte William ‘Luc’ George LUCAS of Barry, Wales, died on 21 January 2024, aged 60.  Luc was born in Banbury and later moved to Derbyshire and he joined 1 WFR on 21 August 1980.  He served with C Coy in the UK, including NI, Canada, Germany, the USA and Cyprus.  He was awarded the GSM NI and UN Cyprus medals.  Luc left the Army on 8 February 1989.  Following his discharge, he met his, then, wife and they subsequently moved to Wales and had 3 children; Jessica, Charlie and Elliot.  Luc retrained as Day Service Support Worker, working for the Vale of Glamorgan Council, with people with challenging behaviour and disabilities, a job that he excelled at with his quite, thoughtful and supportive manner. His funeral took place on 16 February in Barry, Wales. Messages of condolence can be sent to his ex-wife (with whom he remained on good terms) at alisonlucas69@yahoo.com   If anyone would like a copy of his Celebration of Life please contact newsletter@stand-firm-strike-hard.org.uk

2ND FEBRUARY 2024       It is with great sadness that we report the death of Colonel Paul Haslam 424040, Late WFR, born April 16th 1930 in Mapperley, Nottingham died peacefully on January 22nd 2024. He first reported for duty at Catterick Garrison on October 22, 1951. In1952, he became a second lieutenant in the Sherwood Foresters and was posted to join the second battalion reforming at Colchester. From there, his military journey took him to Wuppertal in the Ruhr, where he served as an assistant adjutant. After a stint at the School of Infantry Small Arms wing at Hythe, he was posted to the Regimental depot at Derby. His next posting was to the 1st Battalion in Sennelager, where he took on the role of battalion Intelligence Officer, overseeing liaison with Special Branch and higher formations. His military service included postings in Malaya, Northern Ireland, and Germany. He completed a course at the Royal Military College of Science at Shrivenham, commanded the Infantry Trials and Development Unit in Warminster and also served as assistant military attaché to the British Embassy in the USSR from 1966 to 1968. He later worked at the MOD as part of the Procurement Executive. Having left the army in 1980 he was appointed as Retired Officer Grade two (RO2) at the Royal Military College, at Shrivenham, administering training courses. His funeral will take place on Friday 23rd February at Amberley Parish Church, Stroud, Glos at 1400 hours. The wake will be at The Black Horse, Amberley.  COLONEL P R HASLAM BA psc, ptsc Though there was an obituary notice for Colonel Paul Haslam in last week's Newsletter some additional detail of his career follows. Paul Haslam was granted a National Service Commission in August 1952 and then a Regular Commission in April 1954 with 2nd Bn The Sherwood Foresters. He served with the Bn in Colchester until October 1952, then Wuppertal as part of first 6 Inf Bde, moving to Celle as part of 7 Armd Bde in BAOR. On the amalgamation of the 1st and 2nd Bn The Sherwood Foresters in 1955 he served as both the Bn Intelligence Officer in Malaya from May 1958, during latter stages of the Malayan Confrontation, until the return of the battalion to UK in Jan 1960. He was then posted to the Regimental Depot as the Adjutant of 8th and subsequently 5th/8th Foresters. He then returned to the 1st Bn who were in Holywood, Co Down, N Ireland until moving to the Royal Military College of Science (RMCS) at Shrivenham for the Technical Staff Course in Dec 1963. Shrivenham was to become a familiar posting for Paul for the rest of his career. After completing the Army Staff Course at Camberley the following year, Paul was posted to Moscow as the Assistant Military Attache from 1966 until 1968. In September 1968 Paul returned to 1st Bn The Sherwood Foresters in Minden as part of 7 Armd Bde, commanding A Coy. Following amalgamation in early 1970 Paul moved to Netheravon as Coy Comd of Sp Coy in the Demonstration Battalion role. From Oct 70 to Nov 1971 he served as GSO2 AT2 in the MOD and was promoted to Lt Col in Jun 1971. He was then posted back to RMCS Shrivenham as a member of the Directing Staff. In February 1975 he became Commandant of the Infantry Trials and Development Unit at Warminster. He was promoted to Colonel in June 1977 and became the Colonel (GS) of OR1 in the MOD from Oct 1976 to April 1978, then becoming the Project Manager for Infantry Weapons MOD from May 1978 until his retirement in April 1980. On retirement Paul returned to RMCS Shrivenham as RO2 Training until August 1983. He and his wife Ann moved to Amberley in Gloucestershire but in recent years they had both moved to a Care Home in Nailsworth. The funeral will take place on Friday 23rd February at Amberley Parish Church, Stroud, Glos at 1400 hours. The wake will be at The Black Horse, Amberley. Letters of condolence should be sent to:: Mrs Ann Haslam, The Steppes Residential Care Home, Cossack Square, New Market Rd, Nailsworth, Stroud, Glos GL6 0D.

26TH JANUARY 2024  OBITUARY  It is with great sadness that we let you know that 14410044 Pte Denis SIMPSON, of Milton Keynes, died on 23 January 2024 (he would have been 100 on the 28th).  Denis, originally from Ripley, Derbyshire, enlisted into the Army on 31 October 1942 and joined The Sherwood Foresters on 22 May 1943 and stayed with them until 1944.  He then joined the Commandos and the RMP.  It is believed that he served in Egypt, Yemen, Palestine and Italy and left the Army as a Sgt in 1947. Denis returned to Ripley and had various jobs but ended up as a builder.  He was married to Joyce until 1970 when she died. They had 2 sons.  He then remarried to (another) Joyce and later moved to Milton Keynes. Messages of condolence can be sent to his son, Robert, bobsimmo@yahoo.co.uk .  It is not known at this stage if there will be a funeral service and details will be promulgated, if there is one to attend.

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of Geoff Foster will take place on Monday 5 February at 15.30hrs,  At Kidderminster Crematorium, Minster Rd, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 8DE There will be a wake afterwards at The Old Beams Public House Dunley Rd, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 0AA

12th January 2024   It is with great sadness that we report the death of Geoff 'Fozzie' Foster who died on December 29 2023. Geoff joined 1WFR in 1976 and served with B and C Coy's.  He was discharged in October 1993. Geoff was a true character and a real Regimental Legend who will bw greatly missed by all of those who knew him. Funeral details will be published when known.

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we report the death of Justine Bryant the wife of Jackie Bryant who died on January 2 2024. Justines funeral will be held at St Oswald’s Church Backford on Friday 26th January 2024 at 1030am, followed by a private committal. The wake will be held at Chester fields Sandfield Farm Chester Road Chester CH2 4JR from 1145am. For those who would like to, they would like to ask people to send in one or two pictures they have of or with mum, which will be displayed at the wake. Please email any pictures by Friday 12 January 2024 to emilybryant221@gmail.com If people would like to make a donation in Justine’s memory (and in lieu of flowers) we would lie to raise money for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd who were instrumental in caring for Justine. The just giving links are https://www.justgiving.com/page/justine-bryant Justine's family would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their kind messages over the past week. Mum would be truly overwhelmed by all the love shown by everyone. 

8th December 2023        It is with great sadness that we inform you that 4985349 WOII George HILL of Dronfield Woodhouse, Derbyshire, died on 23 November 2023 aged 100.  George was born in Barlow and after a short period working at a local pit, it is believed that he enlisted as a boy soldier in 1939.  On 17 Jan 1941 he joined the 70th Young Soldiers Bn (which then became the 16th Bn and then the 1st Bn).  He served with the Sherwood Foresters until December 1942 when having been promoted to Cpl, transferred to the Lincolnshire Regiment on 10 April 1943. During his service, George served in the UK, Malaysia, Burma, Samatra, Japan, Hong Kong and Kenya, twice dealing with Mau Mau uprisings. .  Having completed his 22 years service, it is believed that George was discharged some time in 1962 or 1963.  He was awarded medals however which ones, are yet to be verified. Since leaving the Army, George was an Auditor.  He married his wife Kathleen in 1950 and they had three sons, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. George was an active man well into his 90’s and will be remembered for his singing, particularly of Irish and Scottish songs.  He celebrated his 100th birthday in a local pub surrounded by family and friends. George’s funeral will take place on Thursday 14 December at St Lawrence Church, Hackney Lane, Barlow, Dronfield, Derbyshire S18 7TR at 1230 hours.  This will be followed by a short service at Chesterfield Crematorium, Chesterfield Road, Brimington, Chesterfield S43 1AU at 1350 hours.  The wake will be held at the Peacock Pub, Hackney Lane, Barlow S18 7TD.  All WFRA members and Standard Bearers are invited to attend to pay their respects to this WWII veteran.  Donations in lieu of flowers, on the day or to the Funeral Directors, Alfred Dunham & Sons, Dronfield S18 2GL.  All monies will be split between military charities that George supported.

10th November 2023       Kathleen (Kath) Brown wife of 23946592 WO2 (Topper) Brown 13 Jan 1948 to 26 Aug 2023 Kath passed away peacefully after a sudden illness on the 26 Aug 23 at the Manor Hospital, Walsall. Kath married Topper on the 31 Dec 1966 and soon joined Topper and the Bn in Gibraltar in Jan 1967. She soon settled in to married life as wife and then mother to x3 children; Mark (Bomber Brown) currently (WO1 RSM DCBRNC), Dawn and Sally. She loyally followed Topper whereever he was posted, which included; Gibraltar, Bulford, Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield, Nottingham, NI Ballykelly, West Germany Berlin and Hemer. Kath made many friends in the WFR family, and really enjoyed Army life especially Mess functions., Where she often left not before the Champagne Breakfast and washed down with a Gin and Orange. As Topper progressed through the ranks to CSM she too took responsibility and took under her experienced wing some of the new wives. Providing support and friendship especially when the Bn was deployed away on operations. Her bespoke cleaning standards which she honed getting ready for many march outs never left her, and often told people about her experiences of being both mom and Dad when Topper was away. Kath is remembered for her infectious humour, kindness and love for her family. Her funeral has taken place.

8th September 2023     Pte Derek Smith It is with great sadness that we report the sudden passing of Pte Derek Smith of Mansfield Woodhouse. After service with 17/21L as a Trooper, driving Chieftain tanks, Derek returned to Notts and took up civilian driving work. In 1985 he answered the call for veterans to join the Home Service Force with 5(Mansfield) Platoon F Coy 3WFR(V), as Bath Street TA Centre, until HSF disbandment in May 1992. Derek became a stalwart member of the HSF team, regularly parading with the HSF parades, and also when invited by A Company 3WFR, 5 Platoon’s sponsoring hosts. Derek was one of the HSF experienced soldiers who always willingly provided support and advice to younger territorials, enthusiastically and smartly covered less glamourous, yet vital, tasks concerned with security and logistics and always providing help behind the scenes in kitchens. Being tall, fit and a good shot, and with a giveaway mature moustache, Derek often found himself right marker with RSMs and CSMs looking out for him. Although expert with the SMG favoured by The Cavalry, he quickly acclimatised to the SLR with 3WFR, frequently taking part in an HSF Falling Plate team at the annual Bn SAAM at Beckingham. Many a time F Coy trained alongside G (Derbyshire HSF) Coy becoming collectively known as “The HSF” and working together. Little did they know that they were members of a total of six HSF Companies to be raised by Regiments later to form The Mercian Regiment. In (his 2nd) retirement, Derek supported WFRA 3WFR Branch events, Notts HSF Assn and The (national) HSF Assn Events, when possible. He was also a strong supporter of the 17/21st Lancers’ Assn. Derek became an enthusiastic caravanner, spending regular weekends with grandchildren on the Lincolnshire coast. Derek’s funeral will take place at Mansfield Crematorium (in the larger Thoresby Chapel) Derby Road, Mansfield NG18 5BJ (01623-463427) at 10:15 am on Friday 15 September 2023. The 17/21L Assn will also be represented .
Condolences may be sent to Mrs Pam Smith at 14 Shakespeare Ave, Mansfield Woodhouse Notts NG19 8EX. The lead family mourner is Kevin Smith (son). Standard Bearers welcome.

18th August 2023     CAPTAIN JEREMY JAMES BALFE BENNETT OBE TD   January 1934 - 20 July 2023  Captain Jeremy Bennett died on 20 July 2023 aged 89 in Yeovil Hospital after a long illness.  Jeremy attended Repton School from January 1943 until December 1951 then joining B Grant and Company Wine Merchants as a trainee. He then was liable for National Service and, despite asking to join an infantry regiment, he was posted to 68 Trg Regt RAC in Catterick. On completion of basic training he was moved to the potential officers wing before being selected to attend Officer Training at Eaton Hall. On commissioning he joined the 1st Bn The Sherwood Foresters in Derna, Libya. He was a great raconteur of the regiment's days in N Africa and was probably the last person who could tell tales of the Derna Hunt as well as recall memories of preparations for the Coronation of the late Queen.  After National Service Jeremy returned to Grant and Company as a trainee but also joined the 5th Bn The Sherwood Foresters in Derby where he served sequentially as a Pl Comd, Regimental Signals Officer and Intelligence Officer.  When work took him to Chester he was invited to join the local TA Brigade staff. At a TA Brigade Camp at Thetford, in his own words "As staff captain I was dispatched to sort out an infestation of rats at Cheshire Yeomanry lines. Subsequently I was invited by their Adjutant to join them and as I knew most of them I said “yes”. However I still had to be interviewed! Two gentlemen in a semi-darkened room asked a series of social, non-military questions. My interviewers were Lord Leverhulme and the Duke of Westminster - but I got in".  The remainder of his military service was with The Cheshire Yeomanry and in May 1967 Jeremy was awarded the TD and on marrying retired from military life.  He returned to the wine trade, eventually becoming Managing Director of  Grants Wine and Spirit Wholesaling Company. On merger to form European Cellars he was the Corporate Affairs Director and became the chairman of the Wine and Spirit Education Trust and the Academy of Food and Wine Service. He was appointed OBE for services to the Wine Trade.  Jeremy attended the Final Dinner of the Sherwood Foresters Officers' Club at RMA Sandhurst in October 2022, what was to be his last regimental engagement.  A Thanksgiving Service is to be held at The Church of St Michael, North Cadbury, BA22 7DR on Monday 4 September at 2pm and afterwards at The Village Hall, opposite the church. Those wishing to attend are kindly asked to confirm to sarah@sarahsymington.co.uk.  Letters of condolence should be sent to:  His daughter: Janey Bennett, ℅ Grange Farm, STOWELL, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4PD        

FUNERAL DETAILS FOR LT COL (RET’D) KEITH JEAVONS TD. CHAIRMAN OF WFRA . The Funeral of Lt Col (Retired) Keith Jeavons TD, the Chairman of the WFRA will take place on Wednesday 30 August at 1345 hours at St Marys Church Kingswinford DY6 8AY. All WFRA and MVRA members are invited to attend along with Standards.  Please be aware that parking is limited and mourners are asked to be mindful of residents when parking.  Family flowers only.  Donations in lieu of flowers can be made on the day to the Mercian Regiment Benevolent Charity or via donation to: Mercian Regiment Benevolent Charity. Royal Bank of Scotland. Sort Code: 16 19 26, Account Number: 20000562. Reference: KJeavons The funeral will be followed by a family committal at Gornal Wood Crematorium.  All mourners are invited back to Keith’s house; 6 The Village, Kingswinford DY6 8AY.  To assist with catering purposes for the Wake, those wishing to attend are asked to contact Keith’s children (Rebecca, Richard and Edwards) at wording.greens0f@icloud.com

11th August 2023  Lieutenant Colonel Keith H Jeavons TD Worcestershire Regiment, Mercian Volunteers 3rd December 1936 – 8th August 2023  Keith was born in Kingswinford and educated at King Edward VI, Stourbridge, where he enjoyed the Cadet Corps. Immediately after school he joined the Worcestershire Regiment to do his National Service training at Norton Barracks 14th September 1954 before joining 1st Battalion in Bulford before moving to Iserlohn early 1955.During his two years he rose rapidly and left in 1956 as a Platoon Sergeant in D Company. On returning to civilian life he immediately joined 7th (TA) Battalion. He attended Mons OCS and gained his TA Commission in July 1959. Between 1959-1967 he served in 7th Worcesters as a Platoon Commander, Mortar Officer and Company Second in Command in Halesowen, Kidderminster and Dudley. On the demise of 7th Battalion he was promoted to Major and reengaged in the 1st Battalion The Mercian Volunteers as a Company Commander in Kidderminster and Wolverhampton (1967-72) prior to becoming Battalion Second in Command (1972-75). 1975 – 1980 he was a Brevet Lieutenant Colonel on the RARO before taking over as Chief Instructor of the Western District Territorial Army Specialist Training Team from which he retired in 1987.  Keith was instrumental in starting the Mercian Volunteer Regimental Association and played an active part throughout as Secretary and Treasurer.  He was the Acting Chair of the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment Association, taking on the mantle temporarily in 2018. For many years he was a very active volunteer at the Regimental Museum in Worcester. He collected 7th Worcesters scrapbooks and was writing a history of the Worcestershire Regiment TA battalions.  Aside from his military life on completion of National Service he went to St Paul’s College, Cheltenham, to train as a teacher also studying at Birmingham College of Art and Bristol University specialising in Art. He was a fine artist in his own right. He was a schools inspector for Walsall Education Authority (1993-1999) before becoming an OFSTED Inspector. He finally retired in 2002. Details of his funeral will be promulgated when known. He is survived by his three children and grandchildren. Letters of condolence can be sent to his daughter:  Rebecca Birkbeck. 103 Norwood Road, Stretford, Manchester M32 8PP or rebeccabirkbeck@rocketmail.com  

OBITUARY   It is with sadness we report that Worcester Branch member, 23855662 Cpl Lewis 'Lew' George Brazier. Born 06 July 1942 Died at Worcester on 29 July 2023.  Lewis enlisted at Canterbury January 1960 into the Royal Welsh Fusiliers as a Rifleman until 1969.  2nd Queens  1970-75.   1976 - 1983 B1 Field Engineer. TA 2nd Mercian Volunteers, 4 WFR &  HSF Worcester.  Trained in Demolitions, NI Section Commander,  Served at BAOR, Germany, Kenya, NI, Belize, Gibraltar, Colchester, Bulford. SLR Marksman. GPMG, Mortar. Awarded GSM, UN, GSM NI, Queens Jubilee medals. Discharged from regular service, Long Marsden Royal Engineers 1984.
In Civilian life Lew worked at Severn Trent as a pump engineer. Lew`s funeral will be held on Tuesday 15th August 15:15hrs at Worcester Crematorium, Tintern Ave, Astwood Road, Worcester. WR3 8HA.  Standards , Bugle and Association Members welcome. After the service members are welcome back to Barbourne Ex Services Club, The moors, Worcester. WR1 3ED.  If you intend on joining the family afterwards please email, nigelfish@ymail.com so numbers can be catered for.
Letters of Condolence can be sent to:- Mrs V Brazier 165 Avon road, Worcester WR4 9AH.

27th July 2023.  It is with great sadness that we tell you the news that 23502883 Pte William George COTTERILL of Dudley, died on 4 July 2023 aged 90. William served in the Worcestershire Regiment, in Malaya, around 1951 - 1953. His funeral will take place on Thursday 27 July at 1020 hours at Gornal Wood Crematorium, 7 Chase Road, Gornalwoood, Dudley DY3 2RL. The family have asked to extend an invitation to all Association Members and Standard Bearers, who wish to attend.   For those who can attend, there is a Wake afterwards and members are asked to make contact with Mr Danny O’Neill (son-in-law) who can be contacted on 07966 007 546.

21st July 2023. 24211707 L/Cpl Peter Leslie Jackson It is with great sadness that we report the death of Peter Leslie Jackson who died on 7th July 2023. Peter was born on 18 May 1955 in Derby and he enlisted as a junior soldier in September 1970 at Derby and joined the 1st Bn in Berlin. Peter  served in HQ (Drums platoon) Coy as a Pte and was a drummer most for of his career but was also employed as Ram Major, in the PRI shop and he also did an excellent job as Mess Steward for the Sgts Mess.  He held the GSM NI, UN Cyprus, LSGC, Gulf Medals.  He was discharged on 31 October 1993.

14th July 2023.  It is with sadness that we inform you of the death of Ronald GROCOCK, aged 90, of Nottingham, on 25 February 2023.  Ronald served in the Sherwood Foresters and it is believed that he drove trucks and served sometime between 1950 and 1954 in the Middle East.  In civilian life, Ronald was a bricklayer and tipper truck driver.  His funeral has taken place.  Unfortunately the information on Ronald, by his family, is scant and there is no information on him, on the database.  If anyone has any further information on Ronald, they are asked to contact the Assistant Regimental Secretary  cindy.clark247@mod.gov.uk

OBITUARY   It is with sadness that we inform you of the death of Mrs W. Joyce Richards, aged 102 years, on 3 June.  Joyce was a member at Nottingham Branch and had received a Merit Award in 2022 for her long time membership and support of the WFRA for over 22 years.

LETTERS OF CONDOLENCE  Letters of Condolences on the death of Lieutenant Colonel C P (Pat) Love TD may be sent to: Ms Bernadette Love. 2 Stonecroft Close, Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham, GL52 8SW. 

10th July 2023. Lieutenant Colonel C P (Pat) Love TD Worcestershire Regiment, RASC/RCT 7th November 1928 – 16th June 2023 Pat Love’s father served in 2 WORCS in World War 1. Pat was born in Dudley and educated at Cotton College, North Staffordshire. Pat Love served his National Service with the RASC in 1953-5 after being deferred for several years and was commissioned in 1954. He then became a schoolmaster while serving a year in the Army Emergency Reserve. Having decided to join the TA, he went along to join the Yeomanry but discovered that it was about to be amalgamated. Nothing daunted, Pat joined the 7th Battalion of the Worcestershire Regiment and was posted to A Company in Dudley and Halesowen. In 1958 Pat married and moved to teaching in Cheltenham and, as a result, he was transferred to D Company of the 7th Battalion at Evesham. Pat assumed command of D Company on St Valentine’s Day in 1964. Then, in 1967, the TA and AER were re-branded as the Territorial and Army Volunteer Reserve and 7th Worcesters were disbanded; Pat found himself out of a job so he transferred to the Royal Corps of Transport (within the TAVR) and commanded a Movement Control Staff Increment. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in April 1977. As a Lt Colonel, he had to retire from the TAVR at 50 and was transferred to the RARO on 20th November 1978 having earned the TD and bar. Away from his Territorial Army life he was a teacher from 1956 – 1985 initially at Whitford Park School, Chaddersley Corbett, then at a Roman Catholic School in Tipton before moving to St Gregory’s and St Benedict’s Schools in Cheltenham. In 1975 he also gained a MEd at Bristol University. Pat Love was the longest serving researcher in the Worcester museum volunteer team having started helping out at RHQ at Norton Barracks in July 1985 on taking early retirement from his career as a school-master. At first he took on whatever was needed, but gradually he gravitated towards the family history inquiries which were the main part of his contribution to the museum. In addition to being a regular weekly volunteer Pat researched the volunteer elements of soldiering in Worcestershire and wrote “For Battle Prepared: The Worcestershire Volunteer Infantry and Local Militia 1778-1816” (1985) that is available as a bound typescript in the Museum library. Pat also wrote “For a Worthy Purpose: A History of The Worcestershire Territorial Force and Volunteer Battalions 1908-1920”. There were two other partly written projects: “Trouble in the Wind: A History of the Worcestershire Territorial Battalions 1920-1967” and “Defence not Defiance: A History of the Worcestershire Rifle Volunteers 1859-1908”. He also contributed a number of articles to Firm and to Firm and Forester over the years. The COVID pandemic 2020 brought to an end 35 years of fantastically loyal volunteering from an ever helpful, patient and exceptionally well informed man who travelled from Cheltenham each week. His funeral will be held on Wednesday, 19 July at 12.00 noon at Sacred Hearts Church in Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, Letters of Condolences may be sent to: Ms Bernadette Love bernie.m.love@googlemail.com          OBITUARY   It is with sadness that we inform you of the death of Reginald ‘Reg’ Victor TAYLOR of Cheltenham, aged 97, on 26 June 2023.  It is believed that Reg served with the Worcestershire Regiment from the age of 18 and his family think he may have served for 4 or 6  years, and served in France and Italy.  Originally a carpenter by trade, Reg spent most of his working life as a Merchandise Salesman.   Unfortunately the information on Reg by his family, is scant and there is no information on him, on the database.  If anyone has any further information on Reg, they are asked to contact the Assistant Regimental Secretary cindy.clark247@mod.gov.uk His funeral will be held on Wednesday 26 July at 1530 hours in the Willow Chapel, Cheltenham Cemetery and Crematorium, Bouncers Lane, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 5JT. 

23rd June 2023 We regret to report the death of Sgt Ian Turnbull in Canada on 26 May 2023 aged 92. He was born in Worcester and enlisted as a bandboy at Norton Barracks in February 1946 aged 15 and a half. In October 1947 the Regimental Band, with the bandboys, joined 1 WORC R in Luneburg where, still a bandboy, he joined the Band  to replace the only percussionist who had left. He moved to Berlin, by now a bandsman, with the battalion in 1948 before the Airlift began and on to Gottingen as it ended in May 1949. A year later the battalion returned to UK before sailing for Malaya in June 1950. The Band returned to Norton Barracks in 1952 and following the battalion’s return in 1953, joined them in Bulford where Ian was promoted to sergeant. In February 1957 they sailed for the West Indies where the band was based in Jamaica apart from rehearsing for and playing at the Bermuda Tattoo. In September his 12 year engagement was due to expire and, as he could see no prospect of further promotion, he returned to UK for discharge. He then emigrated to Canada, joined the Canadian Army and served as principal percussionist in the Canadian Guards then the Royal Canadian Regiment, and, while still serving and well into retirement became heavily involved in supporting and promoting the teaching of percussion in Canada.

16th June 2023     It is with great sadness that we report the death of Sgt Keith Stevenson who died on Thursday 8 June.  Keith served as a National Serviceman as well as within Battery 3WFR, D. Company 3WFR and F. (HSF) Company 3WFR. Funeral details will be promulgated when known.

9th June 2023    It is with great sadness that we report the death of Sgt Jimmy Froud who died on Saturday 27th May. Jimmy served with the Royal Green Jackets prior to transferring to the REME at Newark after his discahrge he joined 3WFR as PSI(A) at A Coy Mansfield. Jimmy was CSM and escorted the Regimental Colours at the presentation parade in front of HRH Princess Anne in 1977. Funeral details will be promulgated when known.

2nd June  It is with great sadness that we report the death of 24370308 L/Cpl Nigel 'Toppa' Topliss who died on Saturday 27 May 2023 aged 66. Nigel enlisted with 1 WFR in 1975 and served in B Coy and Mortar Platoon in Belize, Northern Ireland and Germany. Nigel was discharged on 18 May 1981. in Civilian life Nigel was a delivery driver and a supporter of 'The Baggies' .Funeral details will follow when known.

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral service for Peter Roebuck will take place on Thursday 8 June at 12.30hrs at St Laurence's Church, Market Place, Long Eaton NG10 1LT, followed by his burial at Longmoor Lane Cemetery at Approximately 14.00hrs.All are invited to join Peter's family for a wake at the Risley Park Public House, Derby Road, Risley DE72 3SS. Family flowers only please, but if you would like to make a charitable donation in Peter's memory, these may be made to Prostate Cancer UK by using the donation box on the day of the funeral or alternatively they can be sent to A.W Lymn Funeral Service, West Park House, 33 Lime Grove, Long Eaton, NG10 4LD.

26th May 2023. It is with great sadness that we report the death of  23440947 C/Sgt John Slater who died peacefully at home with his family by his side on the 12 May, after a long illness, at the age of 85.  John served with 1 Worcs and 1 WFR and was discharged on 23 September 1977.All that knew him are welcome to attend his final farewell at 14.30hrs on 7th June 2023 at Wyre Forest Crematorium Minster Road, Stourport-on-Severn. DY13 8BD and afterwards at the Crown and Sandys, Main Road, Ombersley. WR9 0EW.

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we report the death of Peter Roebuck who died on 18 May.  Peter served with the Robin Hood Rifles Corps of Drums and 3WFR.  Peter was an active member of Long Eaton and West Notts Branch and played the bugle at many WFR Association events. Further details to follow when known.

19th May 2023 Brigadier GR Durrant CBE FRCVS Worcestershire Regiment/Royal Army Veterinary Corps 24th February 1932 – 11th May 2023 Although not from a farming background Geoffrey Durrant spent his early years with cattle and horses in Wirral, Cheshire. Educated at Calday Grange Grammar School, he worked on farms in Cheshire and Cornwall before attending Harper Adams Agricultural College. He reported to Norton Barracks for National Service in October 1955 and was commissioned from Eaton Hall OCS into the Worcestershire Regiment on 4th August 1956. The Army became the central interest in his life. He was seconded from 1 WORCS to 3rd (Kenya) Bn King’s African Rifles between September 1956 – August 1957. Deemed too old for a Regular Commission he immediately joined the Territorial Army and spent 9 years as a Lieutenant and Captain in the Suffolk Regiment and Somerset Light Infantry, while qualifying as a Veterinary Surgeon at Bristol University in 1964. After practising in Blandford, in December 1966 he gained a Regular Commission in the Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) despite advice that he might never reach any rank above Major. Initially based at the RAVC Depot, Melton Mowbray, he was first posted to Singapore 1968-70 where he commanded both a Ghurkha Dog Company and a unit of Chinese and Indian troops attached to the Singapore Guard Regiment. He returned to Melton Mowbray to be both Adjutant and Veterinary Officer and in 1971, he was suddenly posted to Oman for the Dhofar Campaign attached to 22 SAS; an experience of great interest and intense activity that saw him awarded an MBE in January 1973. In stark contrast between 1973-75 he was posted to King’s Troop RHA in London. In early 1975 he was posted to Hong Kong where he commanded a Chinese unit attached to 48 Gurkha Brigade. He made numerous visits to Nepal to advise on Gurkha agricultural resettlement. On departing he was appointed an honorary life member of the Gurkha Brigade Association. Returning to UK in 1977 he served for three years as a staff officer in the Veterinary and Remount Department of the Ministry of Defence, during which time he defied the earlier career advice and was promoted to Lt Col. In 1980 he became Commander Veterinary Services, Northern Ireland, for three years before returning to Hong Kong as Chief of Veterinary Services.  This tour was cut short as he was promoted to Colonel to be Commander Veterinary Services BAOR based in Sennelager where he cared for Pte Derby when 1WFR were based in Hemer. This was a time of consolidation of relationships with NATO colleagues and units in Germany and the foundation of the RAVC TA (BAOR) from British subjects resident in Germany. In 1985 he returned to Melton Mowbray as Commandant where he led the refurbishment of the Army Dog Training School, reorganisation of the equitation training, initiation of a Home Defence structure for the county of Leicestershire and development of the RAVC TA in the UK. On promotion to Brigadier in May 1987 he was appointed Director Army Veterinary and Remount Services at Aldershot. Over nearly 4 years he finalised dog training for all three services, developed Post graduate training for Veterinary Officers, particularly in the field of Public Health and initiated negotiations for the incorporation of Veterinary Services as an integral component of Defence Medical Services. He retired in December 1990. In January 1991, he was awarded CBE, Honorary Colonel Commandant RAVC, Honorary Colonel RAVC TA and his existing appointment as Queens Honorary Veterinary Surgeon to HM, Queen Elizabeth II was extended for a further four years.  In retirement, he was President North Curry Branch of the Royal British Legion and was County Chairman of Somerset Committee of Army Benevolent Fund, Member of Council Veterinary Public Health Association, Member of Council Comparative Medicine Section of Royal Society of Medicine, and a part-time Veterinary practitioner in Taunton. He was also Honorary Senior Lecturer, Environmental Department, University of Leeds where his field of study was the impact of modern methods of agriculture on the environment and the sustainability of the UK soil into the 21st Century. In 2001 aged 69 he came out of retirement to assist with the Food and Mouth outbreak as a veterinary surgeon and found himself back in Worcestershire. His two sons were commissioned into The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment and the The Light Infantry respectively. His funeral will be held at the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, North Curry, Somerset on Wednesday 31st May at 2pm. Letters of Condolences may be sent to: Mrs Lesley Durrant, 12 Portmans, North Curry, Taunton, Somerset.  TA3 6NL.

28th April 2023 ETHEL LAWRENCE It is with great sadness that I must inform you of the death of Ethel Lawrence who passed away on the morning of 26th April 2023. Ethel was a stalwart to the military and was an active member of Chesterfield branch until her ill health. Ethel received an MBE from the Her Majesty Queen along with her husband Peter for their selfless efforts, of posting over 5000 shoeboxes of items to troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. A letter of condolence has been sent to her family. 

21st April 2023 + Funeral Details MRS ANN WRIGHT We regret to announce the death of Mrs Ann Wright, widow of the late Brigadier Tony Wright MBE, occurred on Saturday 14th April in Ipswich, Suffolk Details of funeral arrangements will be clarified later. Letters of condolence should be sent to her daughter: Nicola Wright Capel Rig, Bentley Rd,  Capel St Mary,  Ipswich IP9 2JN Suffolk.The funeral will be at Ipswich Crematorium 10 Cemetery Lane, Ipswich IP4 2TQ  at 1145 on Tuesday 16 May 2023. This is on the northern side of Ipswich. Donations to Parkinson’s UK. No flowers. It will be possible to see the service on a webcast. Details are available via Lt Col Roger Stockton at rogerstockton@icloud.com Wake: The family will hold a Wake after the funeral at the St Augustine’s Church Annex, or ‘Lantern Room’ as it is known. This is a new building that sits beside the church.  The address of the church is: St Augustine’s Church, Bucklesham Rd, Ipswich IP3 8TJ.  There is parking in front of the church, or across the road at the Church Hall. There is also parking along Bucklesham Road if needed.

14th April 2023 Captain Peter George Adam Worcestershire Regiment 20th August1934 – 4th April 2023. Peter Adam was educated at Uppingham and Leeds University where he was a very keen member of the OTC. He reported to the Worcestershire Regiment Depot at Norton for his National Service in September 1956 and was immediately sent to Officer Cadet training to Eaton Hall OCS. He was commissioned into the Worcestershire Regiment on 1st February 1957. Between March 1957 and August 1958 he served with 1 WORC R in Jamaica and the Bahamas. On completion of National Service he returned to UK and joined the family carpet making business in Kidderminster in September 1958. He also joined 7th (Territorial) Battalion the Worcestershire Regiment and continued his TA service until 1969 after 7 WORC R were disbanded in 1966. He was a very fine shot returning to Bisley for many years and being a member of the TA50. He was a support weapons specialist trained on the 3” mortar, 17 Pdr A/T gun and the BAT as well as the Vickers MMG. In later years he exchanged carpets for growing fruit and was a very loyal supporter of Regimental functions in Worcestershire. Peter’s funeral will be on Wednesday April 26th at 2.30pm at Bitterley church. Letters of condolence can be sent to his widow: Mrs Barbara Adam, Millcroft, Bitterley, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 3Q

24th March 2023 It is with great sadness that we report the death of 24101002 WO2 (ORQMS) Joseph Alan Collier who died on died on Sunday 19 March aged 76. Joe enlisted with 1 Foresters 26 July 1966 and 1 WFR in 1970 and became Chief Clerk.  Joe was discharged on 7 September 1988 and went on to become NRPS with 1 Mercian (V) as ORQMS. Joe was strong supporter of Mansfield branch until ill health prevented his attendance. The funeral of Joe Collier will take place at the Holy Trinity Church, Main Street, Shirebrook, NG20 8DD, at 10,15 hrs on Wednesday 5th April followed by interment at Shirebrook Cemetery.  Association Standards are most welcome to attend. The wake will be at the Social Club on Carter Lane, Shirebrook, NG20 8PF..  

17th March 2023 It is with great sadness that we inform you that that Major John Robinson TD of Southwell died on the 13 March 2023. Originally a South Notts Hussar, he was a Battery Commander with 3WFR on formation and became 2IC in 1973. John remained a stalwart supporter of WFR and Crich as well as the SNH after retirement from the TAVR in 1976.

It is with great sadness I report the death of 24111879 Cpl Malcolm Baynes. Malcolm {Malkie) Enlisted into the Army in April 1967 for 6 years and completed his basic Infantry training at Whittington Barracks, Lichfield in October 1967.  On completion of his training, he joined The Worcestershire Regiment and served with the Regiment in Gibraltar, Bulford and Cyprus before taking part in the Amalgamation Parade which saw his parent Regiment amalgamate with The Sherwood Foresters Regiment. The First posting for him with 1 WFR was Warminster where the Regiment carried out the role of Demonstration Battalion. He then moved to Berlin and then Northern Ireland before leaving the Army in 1973. throughout his military career Malcolm gained promotion up to the rank of Cpl. He was also the engine room for the Regimental Football Team where he became Team Captain, a position he relished. Back in civilian life Malcolm settled in Flint, North Wales. His initial employment back in civilian life was working for British Telecom in Saudi Arabia, Africa and Tehran training locals. He then set up his own very successful distribution business in and around Cheshire and the Wales areas. He was also a very keen golfer for his Club and County. Malcolm held the honour of President and Club Captain of Padeswood and Buckley Golf Club and also the Past Captain of Flintshire past Captains Golf Society, he was still a full member before his death.  At home Malcolm wished for nothing more than spending time with his Partner Val, his family and his beloved dogs. He also enjoyed his gardening, annually growing sufficient vegetables to keep not only himself but many friends well fed. Malcolm's funeral will be on Wednesday 29th March at 11:00 Hrs at Flintshire Memorial Park & Crematorium Oakenholt Lane Northop, Mold CH7 6DF Refreshments after the service will be at Padeswood & Buckley Golf Club Station Lane, Padeswood Lake Rd, Padeswood CH7 4JD

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of Michael John Millward will be held on Friday 17 March at 13:30hrs at Chesterfield Crematorium Chesterfield Road, Brimington, Chesterfield S43 1AU. 

10th March 2023 It is with sadness that I report the death of Billie Grainger. Billie was the wife of Bill Grainger who, until his death in 2007, was the Honorary Colonel of the Grey and Simcoe Foresters, a Canadian Militia unit affiliated to the Sherwood Foresters in 1936. Bill landed on D Day with the Sherbrooke Fusiliers,an armoured regiment, and was badly wounded on D+3. He hosted soldiers of 3WFR on training visits to Canada in 1993 and 1994 and came to the Crich Pilgrimage the following year.  Bill was always accompanied by his American born wife Billie who was born in Ohio in August 1921 and died on 12 February 2023 in Chatsworth, Ontario.

4th March 2023 It is with great sadness that I report the death of Michael John Millward who died on 19 February. The funeral of Michael John Millward will be held on Friday 17 March at 13:30hrs at Chesterfield Crematorium Chesterfield Road, Brimington, Chesterfield S43 1AU.

24th February 2023 It is with great sadness that I report the death of Major Michael Simpson TD who died at the end of January. Further details will follow when known.
OBITUARY It is with great sadness that I report the death of Michael John Millward who died on 19 February. Further details will follow when known.

22 February 2023 It is with great sadness that we let you know that 14821774 Pte Kenneth ‘Ken’ Roy GOODALL of Nottingham, died on 11 January 2023 aged 96.  His funeral has taken place. Ken was originally in the Air Training Corps and enlisted into the Army on 18 August 1944 and joined C Company, 1st Battalion, the Sherwood Foresters (he may have served in the GSC prior to the Sherwood Foresters) . He served in various locations in Germany and volunteered to look after the Garrison Cinema and then became sub-editor of Maroon & Green in 1946/7.  During his time with the Regiment, Ken was a keen sportsman and a regimental cricketer. He was discharged on 2 February 1948. Ken worked for Boots before and after his military service which is where he met his wife, Florence; they were married for 72 years.  They had two sons who were kind enough to donate editions 1-53 of Maroon & Green as well as other items, to the museum.  If anyone knew Ken, it is requested that they contact his son Neil, as the brothers would love to hear stories about him neilgoodall@rocketmail.com  

2nd February 2023 It is with great sadness that we inform you that 21013026 SSgt Kenneth ‘Ken’ HAYES BEM of Hartlepool died on 1 July 2022 aged 90.  Ken was originally from Nottingham and joined the Sherwood Foresters in 1947 aged 15 as a bandsman and remained in the Infantry until he transferred to the RAPC in 1958.  During his service, Ken served in Egypt, Libya, Germany, Hong Kong, Malaya, Borneo, Singapore and the UK.  He discharged from the Army in 1972 and was awarded the LS&GC medal.  In civilian life, Ken had a variety of jobs and was awarded the BEM for his work with local charities.  His pure cremation took place in 2022. His daughter, Viv,  would love to hear from anyone that knew Ken and she can be contacted at vivmoffatt@hotmail.co.uk

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we inform you that Mrs Wendy Truswell , wife of the Chesterfield Branch Vice Chairman passed away on Tuesday 24th January.  She had been recovering from cancer for the past two years and had been given the all clear but was admitted to hospital and passed away after a short illness. The funeral will be a private family only event.

27th January 2023 It is with great sadness that we report the death of 19038063 Colour Sergeant Donald Wilfred Ward who died on Wednesday 25th January aged 95. Donald enlisted with the Sherwood Foresters in December 1946 and served with A Company in Malaya in 1958 where he was burnt on the back by a phosphorus grenade. Donald went on to serve with other companies with MMG's Support Platoon.  He holds the GSM clasp Malaya, UN Cyprus, LS & GC and Pingat Jasa medals. Donald served for 22 years and was discharged in 1969.  After leaving the army he went to work for the Gas Board.

FUNERAL DETAILS FOR  EDWARD ‘TED’ WARREN Ted’s funeral will take place on Friday 3 February at 09.50 hours at Brimington Crematorium , Chesterfield S43 1AU. All Association Members and Standards Bearers are invited to attend.  This will be followed by the wake at the Victoria Pub, Knifesmith Gate, Chesterfield S40 1RL to which all are also invited.

20th January 2023 Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Amphlett MVO MBE SWB / RRW
8th August 1934 – 10th January 2023 There will be many in our Regiment who will remember with affection Gordon Amphlett as our Technical Quartermaster in Ballykelly and West Berlin between1972 - 75. He was a supreme professional soldier, one of life’s true military characters, and also particularly successful in using his own skills and experience in turning 1WFR into a very capable rugby regiment.
Born in Blaenau in Wales he was orphaned at 5 and came to the Royal Albert Orphanage in Worcester until he was 16 prior to enlisting in the South Wales Borderers. His talent and character resulted in an astronomical career climb becoming the Regiment’s youngest Sergeant during service in Brecon, Malaya, Minden and Crickhowell. Following a posting to Hong Kong he gained a Mention in Dispatches in Aden. In 1969 as Regimental Sergeant Major he ran the amalgamation parade of the South Wales Borderers and the Welch Regiment to become the Royal Regiment of Wales. He was also responsible for the personal tuition in drill and matters military of their new Colonel in Chief, HRH The Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, for which he became a Member of the Victorian Order.  Commissioned in 1971 to be MTO of 1RRW he joined 1WFR in West Berlin in 1972 and came with them to Ballykelly. He returned to West Berlin with 1RRW and also served there as a staff officer in the Headquarters. Further service included Northern Ireland and Belize. He was awarded the MBE when Quartermaster at the Prince of Wales’ Division Depot, Crickhowell, prior to becoming the Camp Commandant at the Regular Commissions Board, Westbury as a Lieutenant Colonel. He retired in 1988 and was the Chief Recruiting Officer in the Army Carers Office until 1994. Life after the Army included some farming and running a B&B as well as being a very keen gardener.
His funeral service will be at 1300hrs, Friday 3rd February in Brecon Cathedral. Letters of condolence can be sent to his widow: Mrs Maureen Amphlett, at 12 School Gardens, Brecon, LD3 7PG.

13th January 2023 It is with great sadness we inform you of the death of 4987713 Sgt Donald Keith Wakefield who died on 2 January 2023 aged  91. Donald was born on 11 Aug 1932 and enlisted with the Sherwood Foresters on 21 October 1946 on a 9/3 Engagement. Donald was awarded the LSGCM 20 October 1964 as Cpl. From 1970 he served with 1WFR until 1974 before completing service as one of the first Estate Wardens in BAOR from 1974 until his discharge in 1987.

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we inform you that 25004933 Pte Edward ‘Ted’ Gersham WARREN of Chesterfield, died on 1 January 2023 aged 49.  Ted enlisted into the regular Army in June 1991 and served in NI and held the GSM NI.  He was discharged on 22 June 1996.  It is believed that Ted was a Junior Leader and when he joined 1 WFR was in Drums Pln B Coy.  Funeral details will follow when known. Letters of condolence can be sent to Ted’s sister:  Sharron Warren, 64 High Street, New Whittington, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S43 2AJ

2nd December 2022 23551032 WO2 Leslie Hill It is with great sadness that we inform you of that 23551032 WO2 Leslie Hill died on 28 November 2022 aged 94 in Germany. Les was conscripted into the General Service Corps on 4 July 1946 and served as a Pte with 1st Bn Black Watch 1947-51 in BAOR.  Between 1951 & 1953 he served King's Own Scottish Borderers 1951-53 in UK, Hong Kong as Cpl before transferring to the to Foresters Depot 1953 serving with 1st Bn BAOR as Sgt 1953-58.  In Malaya and Singapopre 1958-61 as Sgt and as C/Sgt in UK 1961-63. Les served 1968-1974 with Army Youth Selection Centre Harrogate Yorks. Singapore in 1974-75 1975-1982 BAOR (including tour in N/Ireland). Les was discharged 28 May 1983 and became an Estate Warden with 38 Engineer Regt at Ripon and was with them for 5 years. Funeral details will follow when known.

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we inform you that 4978237 Pte Ernest ‘Ernie’ Rathbone of Sandiacre, died on 26 November 2022 aged 104. Ernie served with the 2nd Bn, The Sherwood Foresters from 15 September 1939 until his discharge in 1946. He served in Anzio, Palmaria, North Africa and Dunkirk. More details including that of his funeral, will follow. .His funeral will take place on Monday 19 December at 1500 hours at the Main Chapel, Wilford Hill Crematorium, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 7FE. All WFRA members including Standard Bearers are invited to attend. There will be a Wake afterwards at Buonissima, Station Road, Sandiacre NG10 5BG.  All are welcome and for catering purposes are asked to let Shirley Lenney know on 07551 492 778.

OBITUARY 23551032 Sgt John Farrington It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of 23551032 Sgt John Farrington on 24 November at his residence in Guadacorte, Algeciras, Spain. John enlisted with the 22nd Cheshire Regiment and prior to the amalgamation with 1st Bn Worcesters.  John played with the 1st Worcesters and WFR bands.  He was discharged on 17 November 1980. Funeral details will follow when known.

25th November 2022 FUNERAL DETAILS Colonel (CF1) James Stuart Cross The funeral of Col Cross will be on Friday 9th December at 1300hrs at St Mary's Church, Monk Street , Monmouth , NP25 3NX

FUNERAL DETAILS Peter James Oakley. Peter's funeral will be held on Thursday 1st December at 12:00hrs at St Giles Church Sandiacre NG10 5EE, and 13:00hrs at Longmoor Lane Cemetery, Breaston DE72 3RF. Followed by wake at The White Lion pub Derby Rd, Sandiacre, Nottingham NG10 5HW at 13:30hrs.

OBITUARY "Bud" Collier Bud's funeral will take place on Wednesday 7th December at 16:00hrs at Amber Valley Crematorium, Derby Road, Swanwick, DE55 1BH. Standards would be appreciated. There will be a wake afterwards at Alfreton Hall, Church Street, Alfreton. DE55 7AH. Bud's daughter Joanne has requested numbers for this so if you will be attending please let Alan Derbyshire know alan.brenda@ntlworld.com and he will inform Joanne.

LETTERS OF CONDOLENCE Condolences in respect of the late 411931 Captain Peter Graham Dunn 3 November 1930 – 19 October 2022. Can be sent to Peter`s Sister:- Maureen McIntosh 4 Huntingdon Green, Ashford Carbonel, Ludlow, Shropshire. SY8 4DN.

18th November 2022 It is with great sadness that we report the death of 23746664 Cpl Peter James Oakley on 5th November 2022. Peter enlisted in 1960 served 14 year from being a junior soldier at the Sinfin Barracks, he served in Northern Ireland, Berlin, Minden and Munster being  the MT NCO for several years before leaving in 1974. Upon leaving he worked for Derby City Council and Rolls Royce, Raynesway until his retirement. Peter's funeral will be held on 1st December at St Giles Church Sandiacre NG10 5EE, and Longmoor Lane Cemetery, Breaston DE72 3RF - Time to be confirmed. The wake is at the White Lion pub Derby Rd, Sandiacre, Nottingham NG10 5HW. December 1st at 11.45hrs. 

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we report the death of "Bud" Collier who died on Saturday 12th November 2022.  Bud served with 2Para, then as CSM with C Coy and D Coy 3WFR. Funeral details will be promulgated, once known. Letters of condolence can be sent to his daughter; Mrs J Woolley, 6 Birkinstyle Lane,Shirland, Derbyshire. DE55 6BS. A full obituary will appear at a later date.

LETTERS OF CONDOLENCE Condolences in respect of the late 411931 Captain Peter Graham Dunn 3 November 1930 – 19 October 2022. Can be sent to Peter`s Sister:- Maureen McIntosh, 4 Huntingdon Green,
Ashford Carbonel, Ludlow, Shropshire. SY8 4DN.

11th November 2022 448940 Colonel (CF1) James Stuart Cross 08/09/36 – 04/11/22 Jim Cross was a Cornishman keen on rugby and wrestling who was educated at the Cathedral School, Truro. After a short spell as a Private in the Queens Own Royal West Kents he entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in March 1955 and gained a Commission into the Worcestershire Regiment in July 1956. He served with the 1st Battalion in Iserlohn, Jamaica, Belize and Bahamas. In November 1960 he was loaned to 1 Staffords for an emergency tour in Kenya and then moved to Ghana on secondment in August 1961. In December 1961 he, with all British Officers, was expelled from Ghana. He resigned as a Captain in October 1962 in order to study at Magdalen College and Ripon Hall Anglican Theological College, Oxford. He was ordained at Gloucester in 1965 and was granted a Short Service Commission in the Royal Army Chaplain’s Department on 26th September 1966.
Postings to the Royal Armoured Corps Centre at Bovington, UNFICYP and Famagusta in Cyprus and Queens Division Depot at Bassingbourne followed. In 1972 he was posted to 1 Staffords and had his first tour in Northern Ireland before being posted to HQ 39 Brigade in Belfast as SCF in October 1973. Subsequent postings included Eastern District, Aldershot, West Midlands District as CF1 before going to Berlin Infantry Brigade, which was followed by HQ 3rd Armoured Division in Soest. Finally he became Senior Chaplain at HQ BAOR in Rheindahlen before retiring in 1991. On retirement he became the Rector of St Peters Church, Stretford, Manchester which included Old Trafford Cricket and Football grounds. After eight years he retired to Monmouth. Jim treasured his memories serving in the Worcestershire Regiment and maintained many connections and friendships. He was a loyal attendee at the annual Gheluvelt Lunch up to just before his death. Details of his funeral will be promulgated in due course. Letters of Condolences can be sent to his son: Tim Cross, St David’s, Redbrook Road Monmouth, NP25 3LY

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that we inform, you of the death of Mrs Maureen Hargrave wife of Major Andy Hargrave on 5th November at Milton House Nursing Home, Gargrave, North Yorkshire.  Details of her funeral will be promulgated in due course. Letters of condolence can be sent to Andy Hargrave at Greystones, Stackhouse,Giggleswick. North Yorkshire BD24 0DW

4th November 2022 479163 COLONEL STEPHEN ASHWORTH OBE Colonel Stephen Charles Holbrook Ashworth died on 24th October 2022  in Burton Hospital. He had suffered from Motor Neurone Disease for several years. Stephen was born in Andover in January 1945, the son of an Army officer. As a result the family travelled extensively in the early years of his life to Germany, Egypt, Libya and Nigeria. Educated at St Edwards College in Malta he entered the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst  and was commissioned into the Sherwood Foresters in July 1965. He served as a Pl Comd in Colchester when the Battalion  was in an air-portable role then moved with them to Munster and Minden when it converted to mechanised infantry. In September 1969 he  was posted to JIB Shorncliffe before returning to the amalgamated regiment in Warminster where he was the APC Platoon Commander. He served with 1WFR in their tour in Londonderry before moving with the battalion on their posting to Berlin. He always spoke of escorting Rudolf Hess from Spandau Prison to  BMH Berlin. In April 1973 he married Susan Thomas, daughter of Major Basil Thomas, the Unit Families Officer. Having achieved a high grade on his Pl Comd's Course Stephen returned to Warminster as an instructor to the NCO and Sniper Courses. In September 1975 Stephen was posted to HQ 1 (BR) Corps in Bielefeld as GSO3(Ops). On promotion to Major in Oct 1978 Stephen attended the Royal Military College of Science at Shrivenham before moving to the Australian Army Staff Course in Queenscliffe in Victoria. He then completed a Long Intelligence and Security Course at Ashford before becoming SO2 G2 with HQ 2 Armoured Division in BAOR. He returned to 1WFR as a Coy Comd in Hemer which included another Op Banner tour in Belfast and, after 2 years, stayed in Germany as SO2 Infantry at HQ 1 (BR) Corps. Here he was heavily involved in the introduction of the Warrior IFV. On promotion to Lieutenant Colonel in January 1987 he became SO1 in the Directorate of Army Plans before returning again to HQ 1(BR) Corps as SO1 Training and Exercise Planning. This role latterly included training coordination for the first Gulf War. He was awarded an OBE in 1992. On his promotion to Colonel in 1992 Stephen moved to HQ BAOR in Rheindalen as ACS (Operations) and, additionally, the C-in-C's Liaison Officer to the Group of Soviet Forces Germany during their withdrawal. In October 1994 Stephen became the Deputy Chief Military Observer to HQ UNPROFOR in Zagreb in Croatia. This was a team of some 700 Military Observers from 30 different countries deployed across Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, Macedonia and Montenegro monitoring the Balkans and reporting to UN HQ in New York. His final military posting from 1995 to 1999 was as the Executive Officer of the Intelligence Division of NATO HQ in Brussels. During this time he was also the Liaison Officer to UN HQ during the Former Yugoslavia crisis. In retirement and as a result of his considerable experience in this area of operations Stephen served with the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) as an observer for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, a role that took him to Kosovo, Bosnia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan. By now the family were living in Lichfield and Stephen was persuaded to undertake duties  as the first Regimental Secretary of the Mercian Regiment, acting as the guiding staff officer in the amalgamation of three regiments into one: a difficult role he undertook with great skill, diligence and credibility. Stephen's wife, Sue, predeceased him in 2021 and in recent years he was in care due to the onset of Motor Neurone Disease. Stephen’s funeral will be held at Lichfield and District Crematorium, Fradley Lane, Fradley, Lichfield, WS13 8GA on Wednesday 16th November at 11:30am.  Letters of condolence should be sent to Stephen's son, Charles Ashworth, at the following email address: ashworthcharles@hotmail.com

28th October 2022 COLONEL STEPHEN ASHWORTH OBE We have been informed of the recent death of Colonel Stephen Ashworth OBE. Further detail including a summary of his career will be published in next week’s Newsletter.

OBITUARY 411931 Captain Peter Graham Dunn 3 November 1930 – 19 October 2022 Peter Dunns’ father served in 2/7th Worcesters as a medical orderly and stretcher between 1914-18. Peter was born 3rd November 1930 at Wolverley and educated at Sebright School. After a short spell as a trooper in XII Lancers he entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1949 and gained a Regular Commission into the Worcestershire Regiment on 22nd July 1950. He served with the 1st Battalion in Malaya until 1953, during which time he gained a Mention in Dispatches. During this tour he spent some of 1952 in Sarawak recruiting Dayak trackers to work with infantry battalions in Malaya. Following the return of the battalion to Bulford he moved to the Depot at Norton Barracks as a Training Subaltern, 1954-56, before returning to 1st Battalion in Iserlohn, West Germany, 1956-57. When the Battalion moved to the West Indies he became a Grade III Staff Officer in HQ Caribbean Area in Jamaica. He returned to 1st Battalion as 2 i/c A and then D Companies and as the Weapon Training Officer. He retired on in 1960. A fine shot he was part of the Bisley teams for 1st Battalion and the Depot, and was tasked to run the HQ Caribbean Area Weapons Meeting. On leaving the Army he tried his hand at farming before joining the GPO, later BT, from 1962-1990. He settled in Bewdley and was a very loyal member of the Regimental Association being a member of the WFRA Executive for some years and spent many years as the Kidderminster Branch Secretary. The funeral will be held on Tuesday 15th November at 15:30 hrs at Kidderminster Crematorium, Minster Road, Stourport on Severn, DY13 8 DE Donations to Royal British Legion.

21st October 2022 The funeral / memorial service of Daniel Tuckley will be held on Friday 28th October at 16:00hrs in the Amber Suite at Horsley Lodge Golf Club followed by a wake at the same venue. Dan always liked a dress code so dress smart in dark colours and if you are still serving or have served if you could wear your medals it would be greatly appreciated, Dan’s medals will also be there on display. Children are welcome at the service & wake, and it is up to you if you would like to bring them. In lieu of flowers, you can choose to make a donation in Dan’s name to one of his favourite charities / organisations – the details are listed below: • Pegasos Swiss Association - https://pegasos-association.com/shop/shop/donate/
• My Death, My Decision - https://www.mydeath-mydecision.org.uk/one-off.../...
If you are attending please let me know so that we can gauge numbers for the venue and catering. If you have any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact me on any of the following: • Saraha.tuckley@gmail.com • 07792510582 • Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of Mark Anthony Garner  AKA Joe Mark will be held at 12:30hrs on Friday 21st October at Trent Valley Crematorium Derby Rd, Aston-on-Trent, Derby DE72 2AF. Donations in lieu to Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity, Macmillan Unit may be left after the service of via Mark's Tribute Page. https://mark-garner.muchloved.com/

14th October 2022 The funeral / memorial service of Daniel Tuckley will be held on Friday 28th October at 16:00hrs in the Amber Suite at Horsley Lodge Golf Club followed by a wake at the same venue. Dan always liked a dress code so dress smart in dark colours and if you are still serving or have served if you could wear your medals it would be greatly appreciated, Dan’s medals will also be there on display. Children are welcome at the service & wake, and it is up to you if you would like to bring them. In lieu of flowers, you can choose to make a donation in Dan’s name to one of his favourite charities / organisations – the details are listed below: • Pegasos Swiss Association - https://pegasos-association.com/shop/shop/donate/ • My Death, My Decision - https://www.mydeath-mydecision.org.uk/one-off.../...If you are attending please let me know so that we can gauge numbers for the venue and catering. If you have any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact me on any of the following: • Saraha.tuckley@gmail.com • 07792510582 • Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of Mark Anthony Garner  AKA Joe Mark will be held at 12:30hrs on Friday 21st October at Trent Valley Crematorium Derby Rd, Aston-on-Trent, Derby DE72 2AF. Donations in lieu to Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity, Macmillan Unit may be left after the service of via Mark's Tribute Page. https://mark-garner.muchloved.com/

7th October 2022 498210 Major Jeremy Paul Witcher Jerry Witcher came from Hampshire and went to Peter Symonds School, Winchester, prior to enlisting in November 1973 and going to the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He was commissioned into the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in November 1974. He joined the 1st Battalion in Ballykelly in 1975 serving also in Colchester before returning to Northern Ireland for the South Armagh tour in 1977. A good shot, in Colchester he trained with the Bisley team where he was known for his ready wit and warm personality. He spent two years as a recruit platoon commander at Depot, the Prince of Wales Division, Lichfield. He flirted with the idea of transferring to the RMP before returning to 1WFR in Hemer, West Germany, as a Company Second in Command. A tour that included being a Company Operations Officer in West Belfast in 1982. In 1983 he took command of 33 Cadet Training Team followed by two years as SO3 G3 (Trg) in HQ British Forces Hong Kong from 1985. He was selected and attended the Army Staff College (Camberley) in 1987 and was subsequently posted to be SO2 G3 (Ops/Plans) HQ South East District, Aldershot, between 1988-1990. He was a company commander at Depot Lichfield at its closure and led the relocation of recruit training to the Junior Leaders Regiment Royal Artillery at Bramcote before retiring from the Army in November 1993. An enthusiastic adventurer he led kayaking and canoeing expeditions in Brunei and Canada so joining World Challenge, the schools expedition company, on leaving the Army was a natural move. He and his wife Amanda retired to Varazdin, Croatia, in 2008 where they started up Schools Own Adventure which hosted UK schools on courses in adventure (mostly DofE Gold), geography, business studies and general cultural appreciation. Schools Own closed in 2021 due to Covid. His tragic early death was as a result of a fall when climbing in Croatia.
Jerry’s daughters are arranging a memorial service in Winchester on November 19th details of which will be promulgated when known.  

 
OBITUARY 24948644 LCpl Daniel Peter Tuckley It is with great sadness that we report the death of 24948644 LCpl Daniel Peter Tuckley on 22nd September aged 46. Daniel served with C Coy 3WFR and enlisted with 1WFR on 5 January 1996 and served in the Close Obersevation Platoon.  He was discharged on 17 October 2001 and holds GSM Clasp NI. NATO FRY. Daniel was a very funny man with a dry and cutting wit. He was a connoisseur of whisky and loved to be very smartly dressed, he had an eye for sartorial elegance and on a night out was always the best dressed. Details of Daniel's funeral will be promulgated when known. 

23rd September 2022 It is with great sadness that I report the death of 477514 Major John Ward. John was born on20 August 1936 and enlisted in the Royal Artillery in 1955 and served in BOAR until1957 attaining the rank of Acting Sergeant. He became an officer cadet with the Royal Leicestershire Regt in 1962-63 and was with “D” Coy at Loughborough being promoted to 2nd Lieutenant Royal Leicester Regiment 27 September 1964 as Training Officer.  In 1967 he was promoted to  Lieutenant and Platoon Commander before becoming Lieutenant 5th Battalion Royal Anglian regiment between 1969 and 1970. In 1971 John was Captain and 2i/c Company in 3rd Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters. After his promotion to Major on 10 October 1977 he became OC Company at Derby until 1981. John also served at WFR/Edist STT Chilwell/54 Bde. 1982 to 1987,  EMU OTC Nottingham 1987 to 1991 and TSW/DofE Officer Leicester/Northants/Rutland ACF 1991 to 2001: John holds the TD and Three Bars His funeral will be held at St Peter's, Market Bosworth, Leicestershire on Thursday 6th October at 12:30pm. The family would be delighted to see any former members of the Regiment who knew him.

13th September 2022 476088 Lieutenant Richard Gordon Perry. Gordon Perry came from Pershore, Worcestershire, and attended Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot in 1963, where he was a Junior Under Officer, before gaining a Short Service Commission into the Worcestershire Regiment in May 1964. He served with 1 Worcesters in Germany, Norway, the West Indies and the United Kingdom between 1964-7. In 1965 he was seconded to the Malaysian Rangers becoming a fluent Malay speaker and serving in Borneo. On leaving the Army he spent the next 15 years in Indonesia and Malaysia in the oil industry before returning to UK and becoming involved in property. In 1998 he was a member of the syndicate that owned the Grand National winner, Earth Summit. He passed away in Worcester Royal Hospital on 23rd August 2022 aged 79.  Private Family Mass in Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Pershore, on 11th September.

OBITUARY It is with deep regret that we inform you that 23889238 WO2 John Pottinger passed away on 31 August 2022, aged 77. John enlisted at Belfast on 11 September 1961, and following training joined the 1st Battalion the Sherwood Foresters. On amalgamation he continued to serve with 1WFR until his discharge from regular service on 21 September 1986. John continued his military service on the Long Service List employed as an Estate Manager, a post he carried out with due diligence. John finally completed his service on 02 July 2001, a total service of 39 years 126 days. John served with the regiment in UK, Libya, Canada, Northern Ireland, Belize, Berlin, and BAOR, and was awarded the GSM NI, LS&GC and Meritorious Service Medal. John was well known in 1WFR for his organising Parascending weekends, enjoyed by many members of the battalion, and their families. John was a highly respected member of the battalion, carrying out his duties in a quiet and efficient manner. John achieved the EPC Advanced Certificate and attended a number of courses namely; Parascending Instructor, 16mm Projectionist, Regimental Signals Officer, Regimental Signals Instructor, and Radar and Infantry Night Fighting AID. On discharge John moved into the world of IT, specialising in the maintenance, installation and servicing of computers. John joined the Derby Branch WFRA where he proved to be a most valued and respected member, taking on the post of Treasurer, a post in which he excelled. His funeral took place at Markeaton Crematorium, Derby, on Thursday 8th September 2022.
Letters/cards of condolences can be sent to: Mrs Anne Pottinger, 9 Underhill Close
Sunnyhill, Derby. DE23 1RH

FUNERAL DETAILS It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that Mrs Debbie Clarke, wife of Lt. Col. Brian Clarke TD (retired), passed away on Monday 29th August 2022. Debbie's funeral will take place at 2:00pm, on Wednesday 21st September 2022 at St Michael and All Angels, Sopley Parish Church, Mill Lane, Sopley, Christchurch BH23 7AX. Family flowers only. Any donations to Cancer Research UK either via http://www.memorygiving.com/deborahangelaclarkeOr to Miller Brothers funeral directors: 119 Bargates, Christchurch BH23 1QH
Tel: 01202 485 439 Email: millers@millerbrosfunerals.co.uk Condolence letters can be sent to: Lt. Col. Brian Clarke, 27 Lynton Crescent, Christchurch
BH23 2SD

12th August 2022 It is with great sadness that we report the death of Major A W Luckraft, who passed away on 27 July aged 94. Bertie was a great character who after school at St. John's Leatherhead was on Intake 1 at Sandhurst after WW2 and commissioned into the RASC in 1947 He married Rosemary, a serving WRAC Officer, in 1957. He served much of his time with the Gurkha's and claimed to have commanded the last Mule Squadron in the British Army with 81 Pack Transport Company from 1958 to 1960 in the New Territories in Hong Kong. He retired early and became a School Bursar and Teacher at a Prep School in Bakewell and joined 5/8 Foresters TA in 1965. He served in C Company in Worksop when Brigadier Wilkinson was its Company Commander. He later served in the short-lived Derbyshire Battalion of the Sherwood Foresters in Chesterfield in 1967 and stayed with it until it became a Cadre. The Cadre eventually became part of 3WFR on its formation in 1970. Bertie was involved in many activities in Derbyshire including the ABF and being a Life Member of the County Cricket Club. He will be greatly missed by his wide circle of friends. After a Private Cremation a Thanksgiving Service will be held at the Holy Trinity Church Ashford in the Water on Wednesday 24th August at 12noon and afterwards at the Village Memorial Hall.. Donations to the Gurkha Welfare Trust. Letters of Condolence can be sent to Mrs Rosemary Luckraft at 3 Chapel Row Bakewell Derbyshire DE45 1EL. 

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of Colin ''Lofty'' Banfield is being held at 15:00hrs on Wednesday 24 August. Alford Crematorium Station Road Alford Lincolnshire. LN13 9LH No flowers.  Donations only for Care After Combat   https://careaftercombat.org/

5th August 2022 It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that 23966863 Sergeant Colin (Lofty) Banfield passed away on 1st August 2022. Colin Served with the 1st Battalion The Sherwood Foresters and later The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters. He was a stalwart and supporter of the Chesterfield branch, and along with others from Mablethorpe tended Martin Robinson's Grave during the Pandemic. Condolences have been sent to his Widow Margaret and family.

OBITUARY It is with sadness that we report that Worcester Branch member  23327202 Pte Arthur Jones died at Redditch Hospital on Sunday 24th July 2022.
Arthur enlisted into the Worcestershire Regiment on the 19th July 1956. Arthur served in the 1st Battalion at Honduras. He was discharged on 18th July 1958.
In civilian Arthur was a driver working for a bread delivery company and then Midland Red Buses. Arthur was a much liked member of Worcester Branch who along with his late wife Mo raised funds by holding garden parties at their home that were very enjoyable and well appreciated. As well as the parties Arthur and Mo are fondly remembered for the pickles they made for the members and the mince pies that were brought to the December branch meetings. Arthur`s funeral will take place at 10:00hrs on Wednesday 24th August 2022 at Worcester Crematorium, Tintern Avenue, Astwood Road, Worcester. WR3 8HA.
Standards, Bugle and members welcome.
Letters of condolence can be sent to Arthur`s son:-
Mr Andrew Jones 29 Oldbury Road, St Johns, Worcester. WR2 6AA.

22nd July 2022 It is with sadness that we inform you that 25034850 Pte Mark A CRUM of Nottingham, died on 8 June 2022 aged 47.  Mark joined 1 WFR on 23 August 1994 and left on 31 August 2001.  His funeral has taken place.

21st July 2022

It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of 23418875 John "Curly" Laming, who passed away on Tuesday 5th July aged 85. John completed his basic training in Derby in 1957 before joining the 1st Battalion at Norton Barracks, Worcester.  John joined the Signal Platoon and after completing his training he was deployed to Malaya on the troopship MS Dilwara.  John was demobbed in 1959. Johns funeral is at St Mary's Church, Broughton on Friday the 22nd of July 2022 at 11.00am for service prior to interment at Appleby Lane Cemetery. Family flowers only please but donations would be gratefully accepted for "Cancer Research UK" c/o Jason Threadgold Funeral Director 19-21 Old Courts Road Brigg, Nth Lincs DN20 8JD Tel: (01652) 638888 Would John's friends please meet at St Mary's Church, Broughton.

15th July 2022 417445 MAJOR EDWIN GOODWIN LEONARD NABOKOV-MARTIN
 Major Edwin Nabokov-Martin died on the 15th June 2022 in Bristol aged 91.
Edwin was born in Olkusz, Poland in December 1930, the son of Leonard Martin, who won the Military Cross serving in Italy. His mother's family had relatives who had served with the Russian Imperial Army prior to the revolution and she was the cousin of Vladimir Nabokov, the author.
After education at Gosfield School Edwin joined the British Army as a National Serviceman in July 1950 in the Intelligence Corps before completing his officer training at Eaton Hall. He then earned a Short Service Commission with the Essex Regiment before being granted a Regular Commission with the 2nd Bn The Sherwood Foresters in September 1953.
Though serving with the Sherwood Foresters as a Platoon Commander, Company 2i/c and as a Company Commander much of Edwin's service was away from the regiment. As a linguist he spoke fluent Russian, Polish, German and Mandarin and therefore had an unusual career pattern. In mid 1957 to early 1959 he served on Special Employment in Ghana as Adjutant, Ghana Regiment and at the Training Centre.
Edwin then served as a Company Commander at the Depot in Derby in 1961 before returning to the 1st Battalion in N. Ireland. There then followed a posting as GSO3 (SD) in HQ MIDEAST LAND FORCES in Aden 1964-66 during the Aden Emergency. In 1970 Edwin moved to Hong Kong as a Linguist/IO in HQ FARELF.
On amalgamation he served with 1WFR in 1972 - 73 in Berlin before postings with the RAF in Gutersloh as an Air Liaison Officer and then with the Army School of Instruction, the Army School of Recruiting and HQ BAOR.
Edwin retired from the regular army in 1981 becoming the director of a property company, though he was also involved in the Foreign and Commonwealth Technical Assistance Programme called the Know How Fund (KHF) which Margaret Thatcher’s government launched in the spring of 1989 to encourage Poland’s transition from communism to democracy and free-market capitalism.
This was subsequently extended to other countries of central and eastern Europe and might be considered a novel experiment in what the US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, would later term ‘transformational diplomacy’. The programme had influence upon the transitional process in the lands of the former Soviet bloc; its part in easing the potentially destabilising effects of revolutionary change in Europe.
Edwin married Caroline Milton in June 1955 though she predeceased him.
On retirement he and Caroline had relocated to the Woodford Valley, near Salisbury. Edwin was a strong supporter of the Sherwood Foresters Officers' Club.
A Thanksgiving Service will be held on 31 August 2022 at 2.00pm at All Saints, Middle Woodford, Salisbury, SP4 6NP. Letters of condolence should be sent to The Revd Rupert Martin 17, Oldfield Road, BRISTOL BS8 4QQ or by email to rupertmartin333@gmail.com

17th June 2022 The funeral of Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Ian Maule (Tim) Ffinch TD will be held at St Bartholomew’s Church, Elvaston, Derby DE72 3EP on Monday 4th July at 11am.

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of  Suzanne Gabb, widow of Lieutenant Colonel Michael Gabb will take place on Tuesday 21st June at 16:00hrs at Woking Crematorium Hermitage Road GU21 8TJ opposite Winston Churchill School and afterwards at “The Drumming Snipe” GU22 9QT.
Please can those who wish to attend confirm their attendance by email,  Anthony Gabb, at anthonygabb@gmail.com

10th June 2022 We regret to inform you that Suzanne Gabb, widow of Lieutenant Colonel Michael Gabb OBE, died on 3rd June 2022. Married in 1953, she supported Michael throughout his career with the Worcestershire Regiment particularly when he commanded the 1st Battalion in Gibraltar and Bulford 1966-69, and latterly when he was at Regimental Headquarters the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment at Norton Barracks 1986-1990. Her funeral will be in Surrey and details will be promulgated when known. Condolences can  be sent to her son, Anthony Gabb, at anthonygabb@gmail.com

13th May 2022 It is with great sadness that we inform you that 517616 Major Anthony ‘Butch’ MARSHALL passed away recently aged 61.  Butch joined 3 WFR and served with E Company as an Officer Cadet and became 2Lt on 21 Nov 1983 and was promoted to Lt on 21 Nov 1985.  He served with A, B & HQ Companies and was promoted to Capt on 1 Aug 1989 and Maj on 29 June 1993 as OC of C Company. He was a very loyal officer who lead by example.  He had an excellent sense of humour and was respected and liked by the men under his command and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Further details will be published, once known.

29th April 2022 It is with great sadness that we inform you that 23491392 Pte Brian ‘Adge’ HARRISON, of Hull, died on 8 March 2022, aged 83.  Adge joined The Sherwood Foresters on 2 October 1956 and served in the UK, BAOR and Malaya.  He was discharged from the army on 1 October 1967.  Following his discharge, Adge worked as a Council grounds keeper.  His funeral took place on 22 March at Hull Crematorium

It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of 24653623 Pte Mark Anthony Johnson who passed away on 28 March 2022. Mark enlisted in 1989 and served with B Company 3WFR at Sutton in Ashfield and HQ Company Chilwell with the Signals Platoon, he was discharged in 1999.  Mark's funeral was held on 26 April 2022.       

SERVICE OF THANKSGIVING A Service of Thanksgiving and Celebration for the life of Helen Waters, the wife of Colonel Robin Waters, is to be held at The Church of St Mary The Virgin’s Church, Upavon, Wilts on Thursday 5 May 2022 at 14.30 pm and afterwards for refreshments at The Ship Inn Upavon. Donations in memory of Helen may be sent to Salisbury Hospice Charity, Odstock Road, Salisbury SP2 8BJ Tel 01722 416 353.

22nd April 2022 Captain Robin Anthony Hitchcock died on 8th April 2022 in Ipswich Hospital aged 83. He had been ill for several weeks following an operation in the same hospital. Robin Hitchcock was born on 25 May 1938 and after leaving school he joined the Hampshire Regiment  and then was selected for officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He was commissioned into The Sherwood Foresters in August 1958, joining the 1st Bn in Malaya as a Platoon Commander in the last years of the Malay Emergency. He held the GSM clasp Malaya and the Pingat Jasa Medal. He stayed with the battalion on its return to Crookham as an Anti-Tank Platoon Commander and then moved with the battalion on its posting to Holywood, Belfast. During this tour  Robin transferred to the Sultan's Armed Forces (SAF) in Muscat, Oman serving as a temporary Major in Suwayhan, a desert outpost between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. He returned to the 1st Bn in Colchester in 1965 as a Company 2i/c then, when the 1st Bn moved to Munster in Germany in their role as a Mechanised Infantry Battalion, he became Adjutant. The Battalion re-equipped with new AFV432 Mk II's as part of 6 Mechanised Brigade. During this period Robin was remembered as a colourful character and those who knew him well will have many tales to tell. On leaving the Army in 1968 prior to amalgamation he joined the Abu Dhabi Defence Force. After this he joined  Brinkmann Tobacco, the German part of Rothmans Group in Hamburg before joining Carreras Rothmans in Bahrein in 1972.  He then moved to Saudi Arabia as the Country Manager based in Jeddah, before working directly for Ali Zaid Al Quraishi, the Carreras Saudi Distributor. On retirement he moved to East Suffolk and lived in Iken and then Boyton where he was a British Legion representative doing much for the Suffolk Branch of the British Legion with General Sir Pat Howard-Dobson. Robin's funeral takes place in St Andrews' Church, Boyton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 3LQ. on Friday 29 April 2022 at 2pm. Letters of condolence should be sent to Robin's step-son: Mr Toby Berridge, Richmond House, Gedgrave, Suffolk IP12 2BU or 07932 725133 or fionaberridge@btinternet.com The family has also asked that people intending to attend the funeral contact Toby and Fiona so they have an idea of numbers for attendance at the church and for catering at a wake to be held afterwards at Richmond House.

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of Mrs Margaret Leman, wife of Colonel Richard Leman the first Commanding Officer of 1WFR, will be at Semington Crematorium Devizes Road, Trowbridge BA14 6HL at 12.15 on Thursday 12th May, and afterwards for a Buffet Lunch at The Milk Churn Commerce Way, Melksham SN12 6AD (approx. 1 mile from The Crematorium).  Condolences can be sent to James Leman at james@springgroundsfarm.com

15th April 2022 It is with great sadness that we inform you that 465087 Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Ian Maule (Tim) Ffinch TD died on Thursday 14th April 2022.  Born on 22nd October 1939, he started at Mons Officer Training School in November 1959 and was commissioned into 2nd East Anglian Regiment as a Second Lieutenant in May 1960; after commanding a platoon, he became Lieutenant Training BAOR in October 1961.  He was transferred to 5/8th Battalion The Sherwood Foresters (TA) on 12th June 1963 as Platoon Commander from DSSC 2nd East Anglian Regiment (Reserve of Officers), transferring to The Mercian Volunteers in April 1967.  Promoted Captain on 1st April 1967, he assumed the appointment of 2i/c of a Rifle Company and, upon promotion to Major in April 1970, he took command of a Rifle Company.  He transferred to 3rd Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in April 1973 and, in May 1979, he took over as Battalion Second in Command.  Upon promotion to Lieutenant Colonel on 10th October 1980, he took over command of East Midlands University Officer Training Corps.  He became Sponsor Officer of D Company The Mercian Volunteers from April 1984 and of D Company 4th Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment from April 1988.  He was awarded the Territorial Distinction. Details of Tim's funeral are not yet known but anyone who wishes to write in condolence to his widow should write to Mrs Ingrid Ffinch, 7 John's Road, Radcliffe on Trent, Nottingham  NG12 2GW.

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We regret to announce the death of Captain Robin Hitchcock, late the Sherwood Foresters, in Ipswich Hospital on 8th April 2022. His funeral is to be held on Friday 29th April at 14:00hrs in Boyton, East Suffolk. An obituary and further detail will be in next week's Newsletter. Letters of condolence should be sent to Robin's step daughter: Mrs Fiona Berridge, Richmond House, Gedgrave, Suffolk IP12 2BU or 07932 725133 

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It is with great sadness that we inform you that 4985623 Pte John Allan PLATT of Beeston, Nottingham died on 6 April 2022 aged 99. John enlisted into the Army on 3 March 1941 , initially joining The Sherwood Foresters until his transfer to The Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry on 13 March 1943.  He served in North Africa from 1941-1942 and in Italy from 1942-1944  where on 23 November 1944 he was seriously wounded, believed to be when heading toward Bologna. He was awarded the 1939-45 Star, Africa Star with 8th Army Clasp, Italy Star, Defence Medal and the 1939-45 War Medal and was medically discharged from the Army on 17 August 1946.   Following discharge, John worked at Chilwell Depot (Chetwynd Barracks) and then as a messenger at Erricsons factory, Beeston.  He had been a member of RBL Beeston for 50 years. John’s funeral will take place on Wednesday 4 May at 1530 hours at Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane, Beeston, NG9 3GJ. This will be followed by a wake at RBL Beeston, 16 Hall Croft, Beeston NG9 1EL. All Association members are invited to attend both and Standard Bearers are requested. 
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We regret to report that Mrs Margaret Leman, widow of Col RGA Leman the first CO of 1 WFR, died on 8 April 2022.  Letters of condolence may be sent to her younger son James@springgroundsfarm.com
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Edward Claude HAWKINS (Eddie) At rest on 31st March at his home in Burslem, aged 84 years. The dearly beloved husband of the late Betty, formerly of Middleport, much loved dad of James, loved father-in-law of Deborah, treasured grandad of Gemma and Michael (Tiger), a dear brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. Funeral cortege from Birch House for a service at Swan Bank Methodist Church, Burslem on Tuesday 26th April at 12:30pm.  Followed by interment in Carmountside Lawn Cemetery. Will relatives and friends please accept this invitation and kindly meet at the church. Family flowers only please, donations preferred for the Douglas Macmillan Hospice. Donations and enquiries to Williamson Brothers Family Funeral Directors, Birch House, Birches Head Road, Hanley, ST1 6LH. Tel. 01782 212880.
 

8th April 2022 It is with great sadness that we inform you that 14901563 Pte Bernard ‘Blaggy’ William BLAGDON of Nottingham, died on 29 March 2022 aged 95. Blaggy joined the General Service Corps, with his twin brother George in 1943 and both then transferred to the Sherwood Foresters where they served under Montgomery in the Eighth Army.  Bernard was discharged from the Army on 9 August 1946.  In civilian life, he and his twin first worked for Adam & Co Dye House before joining British Gas until their retirement. Bernard’s funeral will take place on Tuesday 19 April 2022 at Northern Cemetery, Bulwell, 282 Hempshill Lane, Nottingham NG6 8PF at 1100 hours.  All Association Members and Standard Bearers are invited to attend. Flowers or donations for DMWS (hospital project Nottingham). Any further details can be obtained from the Assistant Regimental Secretary cindy.clark247@mod.gov.uk

OBITUARY It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of 23746755 Cpl Edward Hawkins on 3 April 2022. Edward served with 1st Battalion Sherwood Foresters in Malaya and Northern Ireland. Edward was a long standing member of WFRA Derby Branch. Funeral details to follow.

1st April 2022 It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of 23427562 Pte Geoff Tomlinson on 12th March 2022. Geoff enlisted with The Sherwood Foresters at Normanton Barracks in 1957 joining Inkerman Platoon.  Upon completion of his basic training he moved to Norton Barracks and joined the signals platoon until ne moved with the battalion to Malaya.  Geoff also served in Borneo and stayed with the signals platoon until he was demobbed in October 1959. The funeral will be held at Bramcote Crematorium, Coventry Lane, Bramcote NG9 3GJ on Friday 8th April at 12:30hrs.  Attendance will be limited, please check with the family. Letters of condolence can be sent to guygtomlinson@gmail.com

25th March 2022 It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Helen Waters, wife of Colonel Robin Waters died on 20th March 2022. Helen will be remembered with great fondness by A Company in particular when they were in West Berlin and also by the Instructing Staff and many recruits when Robin Commanded the Prince of Wales's Division Depot at Whittington Barracks, Lichfield. Details of Helen's funeral will follow when known.

4th March 2022 It is with sadness that we inform you that 22353240 Pte John ‘Brownie’ Roy BROWN of Stafford, died on 15 February 2022 aged 90.  Brownie joined the Worcestershire Regiment as a National Serviceman.  It is thought that he enlisted in the early 1950's and served in Malaya and was a Bren Gunner. He was awarded the Malay and NS medal. His funeral will take place on Monday 14 March at 10.30 hours at Stafford Crematorium, Tixall Road, Stafford ST18 0XZ.  All are welcome to attend. Flowers or donations on the day.

It is with great sadness that we inform you that Jan Cross, wife of Rev Jim Cross, late WORC R and RAChD, died on Tuesday 1st March 2022.  Details of the funeral are not known. Letters of condolence may be sent to: Rev J S Cross MA CF, St David's, Redbrook Road, Monmouth  NP25 3LY

25th February 2022 It is with great sadness that we inform you that 23801248 Pte Derek A MAY of Derby, died on 15 February 2022 aged 83.  Derek joined the Army on 7 July 1960, serving with The Seaforth Highlanders before transferring to The Sherwood Foresters and during his time in the military, served in Singapore.  He was discharged on 6 January 1966. Derek’s funeral will take place on 7 March at Trent Valley Crematorium, Ashton-On-Trent at 1230 hours.  Donations can be made on the day and there will be a wake afterwards; details for both will be confirmed at the funeral.  The family extends an invitation for the regimental family to join them at both the funeral and the wake and would appreciate if any Standard Bearers are able to attend.

It is with great sadness that we inform you that 23685742 C/Sgt Robert Horace Speed of Mansfield,  died on 16 January 2022 aged 80.  Bob served with 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment and with 5 (Mansfield) Platoon, F (Notts HSF) Company 3WFR until 24 June 1994. His funeral took place on Wednesday 23 February at Mansfield Crematorium.

It with great sadness that we inform you that 19038306 Cpl Gerald ‘Gerry’ A O’BRIEN of Suffolk died on 12 December 2021 aged 92.  Gerry was born in Leicester but spent most of his life before joining the Army, in Nottingham.  He originally enlisted into the General Service Corps in either late December 1946 or early 1947 and transferred to The Sherwood Foresters on 27 February 1947.  He served in the UK and Germany until his discharge on 16 October 1952.  He then joined the Reserves until 15 December 1958. After leaving the Army, Gerry worked in Sales and moved around the country before settling in Wickham Market, Suffolk. His funeral took place in Woodbridge, Suffolk on 29 December 2021.

18th February 2022 It is with great sadness that I report the death of Alison (widow of Lt Col John) Reynolds at the end of January.  Her funeral is at 14.30 hrs on Tuesday 22nd February at St Thomas's Church, Crown East, Worcester  WR2 6RJ with light refreshments in Rushwick Village Hall afterwards. Family flowers only. 
Letters of condolence may be sent to Alison's daughter, Mrs Anne Moran, c/o Bedwardine Funeral Services, 30 Bromyard Road, St Johns, Worcester  WR2 5BT.  
Donations, if desired, can be made through Bedwardine Funeral Services to be divided between St Thomas's Church and SSAFA."

28th January 2022 It is with sadness that we inform you  23892391 SGT Trevor BAYLIS of Worcester passed away on 16th January 2022 after a long battle with primary biliary cirrhosis of the liver. Trevor enlisted into the Worcestershire Regiment, Mercian Bde on the 6th November 1961, serving in UK, N Africa, BAOR, Gibraltar, Tobruk, POW Div, UK, Cyprus (United Nations). WFR, UK N Ireland, Berlin. Trevor was awarded the UN Medal-Cyprus and GSM 1962 with class N.I. Trevor was the best shot in Somme Plt Nov 1962 other interests were Parachuting, proficiency award in canoeing. Certificate of education second class 1967, subjects military calculations and accounting, English, the army and map reading. Trevor discharged on the 6th January 1975 at the rank of SGT. He joined the Mercian Volunteers Regiment 17th January 1985. Trevor completed school of Service Intelligence and served in F Coy  the HSF 1987, discharged 16th January 1988.  In Civilian life Trevor worked at Royal Worcester Porcelain and also worked as a plumber and gas engineer. His hobbies and interests included the history of Worcester and collecting maps of the area. Photography with a lot of his pictures published in the Worcester Evening News. Trevor was a member of the Hereford Parachute Club. In the 1980`s he used to love shooting at the Norton Rifle Club ranges, also enjoying walking. Trevor`s funeral will be on the 24th February 2022 at 15:15hrs Worcester Crematorium, Astwood Cemetery, Astwood Road, Worcester WR3 8HA. Standards, Bugle and Association members welcome.Afterwards 16:00hrs onwards at the Lyppard Grange, Ankerage Green, Worcester WR4 0DZ.
Letters of condolence can be sent to Trevor`s daughter:-
Mrs Dulcie Allan 57 Maxwell Rd, Bournemouth. BH9 1BQ

OBITUARY It is with sadness that we report the death on the 5th January 2022 of  Worcester Branch member 23762584 Pte Frank William Lees of Martley, Worcestershire. Frank enlisted into the Worcestershire Regiment as a National Serviceman. Frank can be remembered for bringing his 'Champ' military vehicle to the Reunion on a couple of occasions. Frank`s funeral is low key at his request, no Association members required to attend. Worcester Branch coffin drape will be on his coffin.
Letters of condolence can be sent to Mrs E M Lees 'The Briars'. Hillside, Martley,
Worc`s WR6 6QS. 

14th January 2022 It is with great sadness that I report the death of Andrew Clifford Bowker.  Andrew served with B Company 3WFR. His funeral will take place at 11:00hrs on Friday 21st January 2022 at St Luke’s Church, Church Street, Langold S81 9NW.  The turnout is expected to be high therefore seating in church will be limited to family and close friends.  His burial will follow the service at Langold Cemetery (close friends and family only please). There will be a wake at Hilltop Working Men’s Club, Doncaster Road Langold S81 9QL. The dress code will be traditional black, however the family will warmly welcome Regimental ties and medals.  Family flowers only.  Donations to The Royal British Legion and Cancer Research.

FUNERAL DETAILS The funeral of Joy Wilkinson will take place at Holy Trinity Church, Ashford in the Water on Monday 24th January at 11:30hrs. Family flowers only.  Donations if desired to the Suffolk Punch Trust via their website or Woodbridge IP12 3LA. Enquiries to JW & J Mettam Funeral Directors, Granby Croft, Bakewell DE45 1ET.