Rest in Peace

Sidney Edward Thomas - died 19th September 2013

The death occurred on Thursday 19th September of Sidney Edward Thomas 68yrs, at The Beeches Nursing Home, Hayle, Cornwall. Sid served in the SCLI from 1964-68 and resided in Marazion, Cornwall. He had been ill for sometime with cancer. Full obituary to follow.

L/Cpl 23771739 - Anthony Hood - died 18th July 2013 - aged 73 yrs. National Service 1960/62 - Draft 62 at Bodmin - served in Osnabruck, Plymouth and Gibraltar. C Company & HQ.

Memories - Tony was a mans man like no other, everybody liked him, some loved him like in the best mates sense, you could trust him to stand by you to the end. His passing is recorded with great sadness, his articles on this website live on to a tribute to him, his humour and understanding. Rest in Peace.

Keith Petvin-Scudamore

23783917 Cpl John Frederick Pover. - died 3rd July 2013 - DCLI/SCLI/LI. aged 71yrs.

John passed away at 0650hrs today, Wednesday 3rd July 2013 at St Julia's Hospice, Hayle.
He had been ill for a number of years with cancer and copd and 5 1/2 years ago had major heart surgery. Following two heart attacks in recent days which saw him hospitalised first in Treliske Hospital, Truro, before being transferred to St Julia's, he had been in a coma for the last two days of his life.

John Pover left the Army in September 1970. For much of his service he served with the Regimental Police and also as a Bugler within 1 SCLI. After leaving the Army he worked with Plessey in the UK and Middle East. Thereafter he became a coach driver specialising in European tours before working in the holiday trade within Cornwall.

Memories - SCLI website edited , Done with a heavy heart.
Sleep peacefully John, you are remembered with good memories. Your stories will live on !

Keith Petvin-Scudamore.

Michael (Mick) Butler late of DCLI,SCLI, passed away on the 17th June

Michael James Butler born in 1936. He enlisted into the Ox & Bucks Light Infantry in 1953 at Cowley in Oxford as a National Serviceman but quickly signed on for three years to get the extra pay and to be posted to the DCLI who were about to Embark for the West Indies.
He quickly got promoted to Sgt and became involved in the Machine Gun Platoon. In Osnabruck he was the MT Sgt and did various posting as PSI with the TA Battalion. He was a Recruiting Sgt in Redruth in 1963 for a couple of years and promoted to C/Sgt and did a tour as an Instructor at the RMAS.

At the Light Infantry Depot at Shrewsbury as was RQMS. the rank he held until his retirement. He then worked for the Civil Service.
His Cremation Service was held at Penmount near Truro on Tuesday 2nd July, He had been ill with Cancer for several months, He died on Monday 17th June, there was a large attendance at his Service, Mick was a Freemason and many of his Brothers attended.

Terry Joll attended along with Fred Lean and Dick Wignall .

23497877 Sgt Hubert John Hill - "Hew Benny Hill" - died 17th June 2013 aged 74yrs

I am sorry to say the Hew 'Benny' Hill passed away late evening of Monday 17th June, aged 74yrs.
Benny served in Som LI. SCLI and LI from 1956-1979.
He had been ill off and on for many years, suffering from and receiving treatment for cancer.
he was admitted to hospital approx a month ago when litres of fluid was drained from his lungs.
It was also discovered that he had Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and that his heart had been reduced
to a 15% functionality, due to the amount of cancer treatment he'd received in the past.

Many will be sad to hear that Mr Hubert John Hill (Benny) died on Monday 17th June 2013. He was 74 years old. Benny Hill began his Army service in 1956 and served with 1st Battalion The Somerset Light Infantry in Warminster. Thereafter he served with 1st Battalion The Somerset & Cornwall Light Infantry in Osnabruck, Gibraltar and Berlin.

He left the Army in 1979. Towards the end of his service he was in Hong Kong as CQMS B Company with 1st Battalion The Light Infantry. Beforehand he served with 5th Battalion The Light Infantry as a Permanent Staff instructor in Wellington. When serving with 1 SCLI his time was spent predominantly with the Anti-Tank Platoon. Having left the Army he worked for Somerset County Council as a local government officer and also as a gamekeeper.

The funeral of John Hubert Hill will be held on Tuesday 2nd July 2013 at Porlock Methodist, Church, High Street, Porlock, Somerset, TA24 8PU beginning at 11.30am. The funeral service will be followed by burial at Porlock Cemetery. Family flowers only have been requested. Donations, if desired, may be made to the Beacon Centre, Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton# and other charities yet to be nominated.

23732940 Michael Royston Coles - died 27th May 2013

Michael (Mike) lovingly husband to Suzanne, father to Michael, Stephen and Rachael, served with the SCLI. He was a provost Corporal in Berlin, so hopefully some of you (probably the bad boys) will remember him! Well sadly my Dad passed away on the 27th May 2013, after a long and hard battle against cancer. Dad actually went on from the SCLI to join the SASC and finished his time as the QSMI at Norton Manor Camp. Dad's funeral will be held at Taunton Crematorium on Wednesday 05th June 2013 at 1100hrs. All are welcome to attend. If anyone has any stories, memories or messages please post them on here. Thank you RIP Dad x

23801741 Corporal George Edward Counsell DLI/SCLI

George Edward Counsell Cpl 23801741 died 1st May 2013 aged 74yrs.

George was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer in January of this year. Called up for national Service in July 1960, he was among a number of fifty plus earmarked for the SCLI, who were trained at the DLI Depot, Brancepeth Castle, Durham. This was due to the large number of personnel called up to join the SCLI in what was the last year of National Service, that the Regt Depot, Bodmin was unable to accommodate all recruits, therefore alternative arrangements were made. After completion of training he joined 1 SCLI in Osnabruck serving in C Coy. The Bn returned to the UK in June 1961 and was stationed at Plymouth before moving to Gibraltar in August of that year. It was from Gibraltar that he left the Army in July 1962 having attained the rank of Cpl. He returned to his home in Curland, Somerset, where he later took over the Village Post Office and General Store from his father. He ran the business for a number of years before retiring at the age of 40 and moving to Merriott. Later he took up employment with a paint supply company, working as the manager of their Yeovil depot until his retirement. Pre-deceased by his wife, his funeral at Yeovil Crematorium on 10th May was very well attended by his many friends and relations. George was a member of the Taunton Branch of the Association, our Branch bugler Paul Frazer together with members of the branch also attended. Our condolences go to his daughters Alison, Annette and Sarah and their respective families.

Memories -I remember George as he was in Arras Platoon as DLI Brancepath, along with Ray Ryan RIP, John Turner RIP. Sleep in peace. (Keith Petvin-Scudamore)

MAJOR S G S RUDD-CLARKE, DCLI, SCLI AND LI - died 26th March 2013

All of you who knew Simon Rudd-Clarke will be sad to hear that he died of a sudden heart attack in his garden on 26th March 2013. His funeral is to take place on Friday 12th April 2013 in the Parish Church of Smethcot near Shrewsbury at 12.00 midday.

Memories

It is with deep regret that I was told of the death of Major Rudd-Clarke, I believe he was with the Duke of Cornwall L.I for a short while before joining SCLI, I first came into contact with him when he was just a 2nd Lt. I was a L/Cpl barman in the Officers Mess so saw quite a lot of him in his off duty moments. He was the only officer to buy me and L/cpl. John Turner a beer in the Mess. Myself and John were off to a Tramps night at the Cpl's Mess, and bumped into Simon outside the Officers Mess whereby he invited us in for a beer, I don't know what the outcome would have been if the Colonel had been in the Mess. I have other memories of you Simon, and you always found time to have a chat at the Reunions and 50th Anniversary. So rest in peace Si. you were one of the best. - Tony Hood.

Oh dear what sad news. I remember him so well as a young officer, always smiling and cheerful. In 1960 he took a Signalling course , he was a Lieut and most of us Privates, Rocky Hill was the Colour Sgt in charge.
Simon completed the course, he did not pull rank on us and we all had a laugh together.
Please send Alison my sympathy at her sad loss. - Keith Petvin-Scudamore

I was also saddened by Maj. Simon Rudd-Clarke death as I was fortunate to have served under his command of the Regimental Signals Platoon as well as accompany him on the very same signals course at Hythe,Kent. He was a quiet but determined Subaltern Officer at the time but was in tune with all of his platoon members regardless of rank. On one occasion I remember him taking me and a couple of other junior NCO's over to Spain in his open top car for a change of scenery from the Rock and treating us to a beach salad and beer and making us all feel at ease with his generosity.Then there was the time when practically the whole of the Signals Platoon were drafted over to Seville to take part in the filming of the film "Laurance of Arabia".

The last time we met was when he returned to Berlin ranked then as Captain and immediately made a beeline to the Signals block to reacquaint himself with past members.Sadly our paths never crossed again as both of us took on different jobs within the Bn and away from the Bn. I have passed on a letter of condolence to his wife, Alison, directly on behalf of Tricia & myself expressing our delight in having shared our lives with such a true Officer and Gentleman

.Thank you Simon for some very very fond memories. Gerry and Tricia Blackwell

Alan Granville (Alf) Collins - Cpl 22975217 - died 2nd March 2013 - aged 77yrs.

Alan, who had been in failing health for several years, died in West Cornwall Hospital, Penzance, on the 2nd March following a recent admission. He enlisted into the DCLI in 1954 and following training at the Regt Depot, Bodmin, joined the 1st Bn in Jamaica. He also saw service in Belize and later Osnabruck with Support Coy with both DCLI and following amalgamation with 1 SCLI.

In February 1960 he decided to leave the Army, but within a month he had rejoined 1 SCLI in Osnabruck. He continued with his service there and later Plymouth and Gibraltar where he was the Bn Provo Cpl. In February 1963 he again decided to leave the Army, but this time he only managed 1 week of civilian life before rejoining 1 SCLI, serving first at the Brigade Depot before a posting to the 1st Bn in Berlin. Following the 2 year posting he returned with the Bn to Gravesend from where he deployed to Aden in April 1966 for a six month tour.

Following the Bn's return to Gravesend from Aden in October 1966, Alan finally left the Army in 1967 and returned to his native Cornwall. He later married and worked until his retirement with the Cornwall Probation Service. His funeral service which took place at Treswithian Crematorium, Camborne on the 18th March was very well attended by his family and friends, and included 15 members of the West Cornwall Branch of the Association, of which he was a member, together with their Branch bugler and Standard. There was also representatives of the Camborne RBL together with their standard. Our condolences go to his wife Wendy and his son and daughter.

Terrence Price - 23901191 - died 25th December 2012 - aged 68yrs

Terrence (Terry) Price died in the early hours of Christmas morning at his home following a massive heart attack. He enlisted into the SCLI in 1962 and following initial training joined the 1st Bn SCLI in Gibraltar. For the greater part of his service he was member of the Bugle Pltn. Leaving the Army in 1972 from 1 LI he returned to his home town of Frome. His funeral took place on the 13th January and was attended by close to 400 mourners including a number of former colleagues who had served with him. Our condolences go to his wife Mary and his family.

Raymond (Ray) Johnson - 23896392 - (1936 - 2012) - died 11th December 2012 - aged 76yrs.

Raymond Johnson died at his home on Tuesday 11th December after a long battle with lung cancer. He enlisted into the SCLI in 1962 and following initial training at Pontefract joined the 1st Bn SCLI in Gibraltar. His first posting was to a Rifle Company and later to the Signal Pltn where he remained for the rest of his service there and with the Bn in Berlin, Aden and Gravesend from where he left the Army in 1966. He returned to his home in Huddersfield and from then until retirement had numerous employments which in his words were "too many to mention". His funeral took place at Huddersfield Crematorium on the 20th December. ( No details of attendance)

George Alfred Walker - 24013889. Died Nov. 16th. (1947-2012)

It is with great sadness I have to report the death of my old friend George, George sadly passed away at 17.30 on Friday 16th November, at the age of 65 in Doncaster Royal Infirmary with a virul infection.

George signed on in July1964, later joining SCLI in Berlin in September, then serving with 1LI in Gravesend (where he joined the Assault Pioneers), the exercises in Canada & Norway, then Northern Ireland, finishing in Lemgo and demobing in1971 settling back to Doncaster.

George did well for himself in civvy street, having first ran a lakeside cafe, then 3 pubs (good times), owned a petrol station & shop, finally retiring (sort of) a few years ago, running very successfully a little business with his son Niel.

George and I were friends right from school, we worked together, joined up together, drank, laughed and cried together, we even ended up living close together, George was the sort of person that would do anything for anybody, and second to none as a friend.

Sadly George leaves behind a loving family of wife Chris, 2 sons, 2 daughters, and many grandchildren, we are all going to miss him.

Ray Grimson

William Arthur (Bill) Reid - died 27th Sept. aged 67yrs.

Bill Reid, also known as “Ginge” to his many friends was a member of the Taunton Branch of the Association. He passed away on Thursday 27th Sept at Frethey House Nursing Home, Bishop Hull, Taunton. He had been ill for sometime with various types of cancer and diabetes and just prior to his death had been a patient at St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice, Bishops Hull.

He joined the SCLI in February 1963 and following initial training served with the Bn. and later 1 LI in Berlin, Gravesend, Norway, Canada,and Lemgo. He was also the holder of the GSM for Aden and Northern Ireland. On leaving the Army in 1972 he returned to his native Bridgwater where he took up employment as a warehouseman. He maitained his links with his former friends from his Army days and was a regular attendee at the SCLI Reunion.

His funeral service took place on Wednesday 10th October at Taunton Crematorium was well attended by his family and friends from the Association, including a number who had travelled down from the Northeast. The Taunton Branch standard and Branch bugler were also present. Our condolences go to his son’s Barry and David and their respective families.

Joseph (Joe) Barker - died on 21st July 2012

In a Hospice on the Isle of Wight aged 74yrs. He had been ill for sometime.

Obituary

Joseph (Joe Barker died 21st July 2012 aged 74yrs. He had been suffering from asbestosis for quite sometime and passed away in the Earl Mountbatten Hospice, Isle of Wight. Joe was called up for National Service into the SCLI in March of 1960 and following basic training at the Regt Depot in Bodmin joined the 1st Bn in Osnabruck. He was posted to C Coy and it was’nt long before he attained the rank of L/Cpl. Returning with the Bn to the UK and then to Gibraltar he was later promoted to Cpl. On leaving the Army on completion of his 2yrs service he returned to his home on the Isle of Weight, where he very soon joined the Prison Service, a job in which he remained until retirement. This was a totally different occupation from that in which he was employed from leaving school until his Army service, which was in the boatyards on the Island. His funeral service followed by cremation took place on the Isle of Wight in August. 170 people attended his funeral with many coming from the area of Spain in which he resided. Our condolences now go to his wife Daphne, sons John and Phillip and respective families.

Alan Rushby - died June 2012 - aged 64

It is my sad duty to inform you of the death of Pte Alan Rushby, Alan died of lung cancer in the Northhants Hospital, Basingstoke,he had been told he had a year, but sadly succumbed after only 2 months.

Alan was born in Doncaster South Yorkshire in 1948, he joined the 1/SCLI in Aden 1966, serving with 1LI in Gravesend, Northern Ireland, and Lemgo, until 1971 when he left HMF.

Alan was divorced, but leaves behind 3 children and many grandchildren. Alan spent most of his working life on the continent as a steelfixer/joiner, but mainly in Munich He also tried his hand at hostelry, opening a pub in southern Spain for a while. I know all this as Alan was my brother-in-law, and we did most of these
things together. Rest In Peace Alan - Ray Grimson

Wilfred James (Jimmy) Rickard - Died May 14th 2012

Mr Jimmy Rickard died on Monday 14th May 2012. He was 69 years old. Jimmy was a member of the Taunton Branch. Jimmy joined the Army in 1963 and served with The Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry and the 1st and 3rd Battalions of The Light Infantry. He served overseas in Berlin and Cyprus. On leaving the Army he worked as a Cadet Admin Assistant for the Cornwall ACF for many years.

He is survived by his wife Joan and sons David and Andrew.

Col George Torquil Gage 'Toots' Williams - Died on 1st April 2012 aged 91

Adored husband of the late Yvonne and greatly missed by his four children, twelve grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and countless friends.

Tribute by Bob Bogan BEM

"Toots was a legend to thousands of soldiers"

Colonel Williams was the CO of the DCLI Depot in Bodmin in 1959 when I was posted there as a training corporal from DLI. It was a privilege to serve from early 1959 to 1962 under such a fantastic officer and gentleman. All we young NCO's would have followed our CO into the jaws of hell without question.

Depot life was so content and very happy depsite defence cutbacks, almalgamations , training the last NS drafts and the extra drafts/intakes for KSLI and SCLI, Major Toots Williams as he was then could be seen out and about the depot with his men!

Truely a "Mans Man" who was respected by all who knew him, not just at the regimental depot but throughout Cornwall.

CAPTAIN PETER MAURICE COATES - died Jan 29th - RM - KSLI - Para - SLI - SCLI - SOAF

Many will be sad to hear of the recent death of Captain Peter Coates. Following a month of illness Peter died on 29th January 2012, aged 76.

Details were passed to this office by Peter’s son, Roger, who serves in a Full Times Reserve Service (FTRS) appointment, following regular service in the Coldstream Guards. Peter had two other children, Dawn and Luke.

Peter began his military career in 1954 with The Royal Marines before being attending Eaton Hall. Initially becoming a 2nd Lieutenant in The King’s Shropshire Light Infantry he was seconded to 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment serving in both Cyprus and Suez. Then, having gained a regular commission in The Somerset Light Infantry, he served as a platoon commander before assuming the appointment of weapon training officer with 1st Battalion The Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry. A tour with 1st Battalion The Herefordshire Light Infantry followed before two years service with The Sultan of Oman Armed Forces. Having received the Sultan’s Commendation in 1968 he left the Army in 1969. He subsequently worked for the Home Office.

Peter and Sheila were married for over thirty years. Some ten years ago Peter suffered a stroke and many appreciate how hard Sheila has worked during this time. Meanwhile Peter was particularly proud of his regimental links and those with the Association in Somerset. Funeral arrangements will soon be determined by Sheila and her step-children. Meanwhile those wishing to write to Peter’s widow, may do so at the following address: Mrs Sheila Coates, 10 Plymouth Hill, Princetown, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6QG.

Ted Ley- RIP - died Jan 2012 - SCLI - LI

We have just heard that Ted Ley has died in London, some will remember him as I do coming to Taunton Reunion with his wife, probably in 2007.Sadly his wife Georgina Ley died some 2 years ago, and Ted never got over it. More details soon.

Message from Trevor Nottingham

Very very sad about the passing of Ted .He was a happy go lucky person. He thought passionately of his late wife Georgina .Whom sadly he never got over her passing . And also his 6 children Jason Darren Kerry Adam Chevonne & Chantel. .Ted served in SCLI & IST BN L/Inf .He served in the Anti-Tank plt Operating the then new guided weapons system the (VIGILANT) .He also served as a dog handler in the troubled Northern Ireland .Ted was also a very good boxer and boxed for the Bn many times .He leaves with me and many of his friends very good memories .

Trevor N

Terry Cheek - died 9th Dec 2011 - 23982924 L/Cpl Cheek T S - C in C’s Commendation ADEN

Terry died in Taunton after a long illness and will be remembered especially as a member of Recce Platoon Aden, one of Bob Bogan's lads. After his service he joined the police force and took up climbing at which he became an ecxpert at coastal climbs.

Terry was aged 64 years old. He was an avid supporter of the SCLI/LI/RIFLES Reunion in Taunton.

He served from 1963 to 1968, Junior Leader and then with 1 SCLI. Promoted to Lance Corporal, overseas service included BAOR and Aden. On 28th October 1966 he received the Commander in Chief’s Commendation. On leaving the Army he joined the Police.

OBITUARY by BOB BOGAN BEM

Terry's death came as a monumental shock to myself.
May I offer my sympathy to his wife Paula, his son, daughter and all the family. I have phoned Adrian (Terry's son) to ask could I write something on the S.C.L.I. website out of respect to his dad.(Terry).

Terry Cheek was a Section Commander in 1st. S.C.L.I.'s "SPECIAL BRANCH SQUAD" ADEN 1966. He was an excellent comrade, a true friend and one of my teenage HERO'S, a first class leader of his section."no fuss". He led by his own example. Calm and steady under sniper fire and grenade attacks. Solid as a rock! with the demands that were placed on such a young soldier. His puckish sence of humour could lift our spirits in the stinking, vile , open sewers, which were infested with rats and cockroaches, where our ambush positions were normally sited at night.

Nearly all of S.B.S. (CHOSEN MEN) like Terry were teenagers. I myself was almost twice their age."On paper I was the Platoon Commander".
However we grew so close! They were like my own son's. I'm not ashamed to say ---- "I loved them all", and became very protective toward's them, ensuring whenever possible, "No one disturbed their sleep, their meals were good". Our erratic lifestyle did not fit in with the Battalion's routine.
S.B.S. directives, order's, operations, came via Fort Morbut. It was not possible for my "bonny lads" to serve 2 master's, hence Terry Cheek's comments on "Bob Bogan's web pages".

When S.C.L.I. returned to Gravesend we reformed as Recce Pln. within 6 months I was posted out. Terry left the Army and joined the Police Force in Taunton. I'm aware he was an expert rock climber and appeared on BBC 2.
With Ernie Lethbridge's kind assistance Terry, Ernie,and myself met up again at the Taunton Reunions up until 2010.

How other's saw S.B.S.! To quote one visiting journalist,
"A LESS MILITARY OUTFIT YOU COULD HARDLY IMAGINE! LANDROVERS LIKE ARAB VEHICLE'S! DRESSED IN UNKEMPT CIVILIAN CLOTHES! WITH VAST ASSORTMENT OF WEAPON'S".

"THE CINC's CITATION".

The Commander in Chief awarded Certificate's of Commendation to the following on the 21st.October 1966, L/CPL T.S.CHEEK, L.W.PROSSER, J.L.SUMMERS, Pte's R.F.STONE, F.P.STUCKEY, D.A.P.THOMAS, (S.B.S.) 1 S.C.L.I.

They record that they have been employed as a Special Branch Squad in Aden during the period 27th April 1966 -- 1st.October 1966.

This Squad has been on call by the Aden Police Special Branch for 24 hours of every day during the Battalions emergency tour in Aden and has been used in operations all over Aden State,and across the border into Lahey State.

These operations were often mounted at short notice, have been potentionally very dangerous, and required a high degree of military skills.

On night's when they have not been used by Aden Police Special Branch, they have carried out two man ambushes, during the hour's of darkness. These have been mounted dressed in civilian type clothes, amid the back alley's and open sewers of Sheikh Othman to cover the principle grenade throwing area's. Between them they have captured FIVE terrorists with grenade's actually in their hand's. Another who had thrown his grenade at an Army mobile patrol was fired upon by an ambush and was killed.

Throughout this period they have been called upon to work long hours both by day and night. Alway's with the knowledge one careless act could be fatal. Dispite the inherent tension, and sleeplessness of this work.

Their keeness, alertness, enthusiasim has been an example to all, and far above that normally expected of young soldier's.

Terry Cheek! Rest In Peace.
Thankyou for all the memories.
Bless You!
Radfan, AKA
Bobby Bogan.

Message from Ernie Lethbridge

So very sad the passing of Terry Cheek. Terry and I were Infantry Junior Leaders together, later joining the S.C.L.I. in Berlin serving together in "C" coy then in the Recce platoon until he left in Gravesend. Terry was a guy you could always count on no matter how hard the going got, a true and trusted friend. His two great loves in the Army were rock climbing and H.F. Antennas. I think the love of the latter was due to the fact it often involved climbing. I believe it was Les Summers who christened him rubber legs because of his ability to put his foot level with his shoulder when climbing, a name that stuck until he left.

A friend that will be sadly missed by myself and anyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in Peace Terry.
Ernie Lethbridge

David John Jones-died 15th November 2011 aged 72yrs.

David was born in Bedminster Down, Bristol. Following his final schooling at St Mary Redcliffe he became an apprentice Bricklayer. He was called up for National Service into the SCLI in June of 1960 and following training at the Regt. Depot, Bodmin, he joined the Bn in Osnabruck, where after further training he became a Signaller and Dispatch Rider. He remained as such throughout his service. Leaving the Army in June 1962, he returned to the building trade continuing as a Bricklayer/Stonemason until his retirement. David had been suffering from cancer for the past couple of years and had undergone both chemo and radiotherapy. His death occured in Frenchay Hospital, Bristol following his admission for pneumonia. Our condolences go to his wife and family.

John Turner - died 17th Oct 2011

In 1960 John was called up for National Service and did his training at Durham (Brancepeth Camp) , after a short time John enlisted into the Regulars. He then served in Osnabruck, Gibraltar, Berlin, Gravesend, Northern Ireland, Lemgo ending his career in Colchester 1975. On returning to Shrewsbury he joined 5 LI as a TA member and then landed the job as NRPS Sgt until 'Option for Change' in 1999. In total John served the army for 39 years. .Our thoughts are with his wife Sheila and his family.

Message from Keith Petvin-Scudamore

I will always remember you John as member of Arras Platoon at DLI Brancepeth, you were often right marker, tall and smart. Then many years later meeting you at reunions, travelling long way with Sheila but never missing, still on parade to the end. Sleep peacefully old pal.

Message from Tony Hood

JOHN TURNER, - One of the best, so sorry to hear of your passing, we had many a laugh together during the 18 months I spent in your company at the Officers Mess in Osnabruck and Gibraltar. Thanks for all the memories you have left me with, you were a great 'mucker' my thoughts are with his family. R.I.P. John. Tony Hood.

Kenneth Trapnell - died 24th June 2011 -

Ken's funeral took place at the Weston Crematorium on Thursday 7th July 2011. He served with the SCLI in Gibraltar and Berlin sadly died after a long battle with Cancer. His devoted wife and family know little of his service with the Regiment and would be pleased to hear from any of his friends and colleagues

Ken and his original family,came from Portbury near Bristol. After his service in the SCLI, he may have been resident in Pill, near Bristol at least with his present family. He and his wife Eileen returned from Spain last year where they were living in retirement. Their present address is 76 Firtree Avenue,Oaktree Park,Locking, Weston Super Mare. BS24 8RJ. Telephone01934 823939

Ken used to take part in running with Alastair Fyffe and may have done a little bit of boxing. I also remember he used to Baby sit for his Colour Sgt's family in Gib ,

Lance Corporal Brian Skinn - died June 2011

Brian Skinn, who served in Berlin & Gravesend, Brian was from Doncaster, sadly passed away some weeks ago, no further information at present, but will post when I get it. Remembered by Ray Grimson.

Sid Bright - died 20th May 2011- Ex Sgt in DCLI - SCLI

Aged 89, passed away in his sleep. Beloved Father of Paula (deceased), George, Gillian and Rosemarie. Doting grandfather of thirteen and great grandfather of three. Sidney was a decorated soldier and WW2 POW serving with DCLI. Forever in our hearts, may he rest in peace.

Poppa Bright - In memory of our darling poppa, tinker, tailor, soldier, pearly prince, horse whisperer,costermonger, cut a dash, cowboy, and storyteller. In heaven with 'Scruffy' now, Darling. We shall miss you dearly, from all of your thirteen grandchildren and your three great grandchildren .

Messages from Bob Bogan.

I've just had a sad e-mail from Chad Lobb, Sid Bright who was the S.C.L.I's Medical Sgt. in Aden and Gravesend,passed away today at 9am.
Sid was in sheltered accomodation in Barnstable,for several year's, last time I spoke to him was in March 2011. It was obvious Sid was in poor health then.
Shiner Bright, I'll not forget after my third grenade attack you were Surgeon General in your M.I. Room in Radfan Camp.and you removed all the big bits of grenade, patched me up so I could go back to Sheikh Othman.
Again,a wonderful comrade who will be missed by all who knew him.
R.I.P. Sid.

I served alongside "Shiner" Bright for many years in the D.C.L.I.,and S.C.L.I..
We were Cpl's,then Sgts. together.He was to me like the big brother I never had,being almost opposite in character,and 12 years older than myself.

We did have many things in common.Pride in our Regiment."A puckish sence of humour". "Telling old soldier's!" War Stories" "Seeing the funny side of service life". "Making the most of what we had,or did not have" as soldier's,and comrades.

Shiner was a WW11 D.C.L.I. Veteran,and had been a P.O.W..His medals included 1939/45 Star,Africa Star (8th.Army),Italy Star,1939/45 Defence Medal,1939/45 Victory Medal,also while serving with S.C.L.I. in Aden as the Regiments Medical Sgt. He was awarded his G.S.M. 1962 with it's South Arabian clasp.

Shiner for several years lived alone in sheltered accomodation found for him by the "Adens Veterans Assn".
Flat 20,St.Ann's Court,Barnstable.
Myself, and Ernie Lethbridge did visit him before attending the Taunton Reunions. He was not in good health,never the less.Sid's passing hit me very hard.

"Shiner thanks for some Wonderful memories". R.I.P.

Bobby.

Message from Chad Lobb

Sid Bright was my first wifes father, he was a Sgt in the medic centre he left the SCLI whilst we were in N Ireland, he also served with the Btn in Berlin, Aden (where he gave me first aid when I was
blown up) Gravesend & finally N Ireland. On leaving he returned to Bodmin & worked as a decorater then in a store in the old barracks.

Chad Lobb - Rest in Peace Sid.

Bereavement of Mrs Esmee Wiscombe - RIP - Friday 18th February 2011

Esmee and Bill, for many years, organised a Regimental Band Reunion at Tidworth. It was a very popular event.

Malcolm Hedley Warren - died 18th Feb. 2011

SCLI/1LI Clarinetist passed away on Friday 18th Feb 2011. Malcolm lived at Patchway Filton.

Malcolm Hedley Warren, died 18th February 2011, aged 63ys.
Malcolm enlisted into the Light Infantry Brigade, as a Junior Bandsman, Boys Service,at Copthorn Barracks, Shrewsbury on 8th January 1963. He trained as a Clarinetist and following just over two years training, he was posted in May 1965 to the Band of1st Bn SCLI in Berlin. Later that year he moved with the Bn To Gravesend. In 1966 he attended the Royal Military School of Music at Twickenham where he underwent further musical training before returning to the Bn in 1967. Following vesting day in 1968 when 1st Bn SCLI became 1st Bn LI. Malcolm continued service with the Band of 1 LI. In June of 1969
as a result of cutbacks to the armed forces he was made redundant. Returning to civilian life he first took employment with a milk company and later as a coach driver with a local coach company. Later, and up until the time he became ill with cancer, he was a full time carer for his wife. As well as his wife Mandy he also leaves two sons and three daughters all of whom we send our condolences.

Lester Hocking - died 18th Jan 2011

Lester hocking ex SCLI/1LI Bugler has passed away .His funeral to be held on Thursday 27th January at TRESWITHIAN DOWNS CAMBORNE .1615 PM

William Bevan Phillips - died 10th Jan 2011

William Bevan Phillips, died at Hayle in Cornwall on 10th January 2011, aged 73 yrs. He joined the DCLI in the early 1950's and following training at the Regimental Depot joined the 1st Bn. He served in the West Indies, UK and Osnabruck. Following amalgamation he returned to the Regt Depot were he served on the training staff until closure of the depot in 1962. He rejoined the 1st Bn.SCLI in Gibraltar serving there and later in Berlin. He left the Army with the rank of L/Cpl in 1964. He leaves a wife, Toni and 5 children to whom we send our condolences.

Allen Burt - died 4th November 2010

Allen Burt who has been ill for sometime and was in care died at 0345hrs today, 4th November. Funeral arrangements are currently in hand and an update will be given when final details are known. Allen was a boy entrant in the early 60's and rose to the rank of WO11 (TQMS) in the Regiment. In civilian life he was for a period of time the Bursar at The Somerset College of Art and Technology.

Tribute by Trevor Nottingham

So very very sad to hear of the passing of Allen Burt .We both left Shrewsbury along with George Rains in 1964 . Destined for The SCLI in Berlin . I spent most of my career serving with Allen . A truly great friend who enjoyed life to the full.

Rest in peace old friend - .Trevor Nottingham.

Bert Love - died 3rd October 2010 - Bert has been ill for sometime - Remembered by Dave Rose & Reg Mitchell.

Sgt Stanley Templeman - died 19th July 2010.

He was DCLI at the time of Amalgamation and therefore became SCLI. He was at the LI Depot in Copthorne Barracks as Band Sgt with the Junior Soldiers Band. He died in Shrewsbury Hospital.

Sgt Kenneth Fishburn ACC - died on Wednesday 2 June 2010 aged 71

22327167 - Corporal Ken Hunt - died December 2009

Ken he was A company storeman in Gravesend. The funeral was in Taunton and many members of the Taunton branch of the Regimental Association attended. Remembered by Ray Hall

Lt Col Rupert Ian Feild MC.- died on 1st November 2009 aged 82yrs..

Rupert Feild was born on 21 October 1927. and educated at Radley. On the 1st January 1946 he enlisted as a Rifleman in The Rifle Brigade. During the course of that year he became an Officer Cadet and from January 1947 until July 1948 attended RMA Sandhurst. He was commissioned into the DCLI and joined the 1st Bn. in Somaliland.

The Bn returned to the UK in1950 and became the LI BrigadeTrng Bn at Borden. He was promoted to Lieut that same year and took up the post of Assistant Adjt. In 1951 he became the Bn I.O. moving in 1952 to the post of Adjt at the Regt. Depot Bodmin. In 1953 with the rank of A/Capt, he was posted to HQ East Africa Comd. Fort Hall, Kenya, as District Military I.O. He remained as such until 1955. This was at the time of the Mau Mau troubles in Kenya and it was during this time that he was awarded the MC. In March of 1955 he had led a mixed European and African police patrol deep into the Mount Kenya forest. All were disguised as Mau Mau terrorists. They entered a camp where a meeting was taking place and in spite of sentries, were able to advance to a distance of 10yds before opening fire, killing 3 terrorists and severely wounding 6 others.

From 1955-58 he was posted to RMA Sandhurst as an Instructor moving to 1 DCLI at Osnabruck late in 1958, when he became the last Adjt of the Bn prior to amalgamation. Following further periods at Staff College as a student and staff appointments with the MOD, he was posted to 1 SCLI as a Coy Comd in 1963 with the rank of Maj. From 1966 until his retirement from the army in 1982 he had a number of staff appointments in Aden and the UK. Promoted Lt Col in 1972 his last appontment was that of Comd. Salisbury Plain Trg. Area. In civilian life he took up a position with an Insurance Broking firm in Salisbury until retirement in 1994. He resided at Penselwood, Somerset where he took an active role in village life.He married in 1977 but this was later dissolved.

Bill Gready, Died 19th October 2009

Aged 73yrs. Bill was born in Weston-super-Mare on 3rd July 1936. Following schooling  he was called up for National Service on the 4th November 1954 into the Som LI. On completion of his training he was posted to the 1st Bn who at this time were engaged in the Malayan campaign. He completed his NS service and in the late 50s re-enlisted into the SCLI as a Regular serving with the Bn in Germany Gibraltar Libya etc before later transferring to the KSLI and following Vesting   Day in 1968 with 3 LI. Bill left the army in the mid 70s and took up employment with the Fire Service. He became a stroke victim in later life but always remained active, He was a regular attendee at the Somersets in Malaya Reunion and in September last he attended the 50th anniversary celebrations at Wells, (No other deatails available at this stage)

Roy Tremmelling - died 16th October 2009

Dad joined as a cadet around 1951 then had a break from 53 - 55 where he rejoined properly and did 22yrs service. he left the army life for good in 1977. At discharge he was L/CPL and his army number was 22695720.
Dad never settled in to civi life and after several years working as a slinger in the dockyard he got a job as a security guard, he enjoyed being back in some kind of uniform.
Dad retired at 65. Sadly he passed away 16th October 2009 unexpectedly with heart problems and pneumonia aged 74 yrs. Dad left behind 3 children 9 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
Message from his family.
We miss him more than he will ever know, but know one day we will meet again .until then all I can say is
DAD I LOVE YOU XXX. (Donna)

Maj O M A ( Tony ) Carey. Born. 12th November 1939, Died 2nd June 2009 aged 69yrs.

Tony Carey was commissioned as a 2nd Lt into the SCLI on 23 July 1960. He joined the Bn. in Osnabruck serving as a Pltn Com. in C Coy. Later promoted to Lt he continued with the Bn. in Gibraltar, Tobruk, Berlin and Gravesend performing the duties of Pltn Com. A / Adjutant and Intelligence Officer. Promoted Captain in April 1965 he attended the Army Language School in Aden as a student.

On completion of his course he was posted in July 1966 to the Sultan of Oman's Armed Forces serving both in Oman and Dhofar as Coy. 2 i/c and Adjt. He rejoined SCLI in 1968 just prior to vesting day and went to Northern Ireland with 1 LI serving as the Training Officer and then Coy. 2 i/c. From March 1970 until October 1971 he had a staff appointment as a GSO3 Int. at HQ Berlin. He rejoined the Bn at Lemgo in October 1971 serving with the Bn. until September 1972. It was during this period that he had carried out the duties of Colours Parade Officer. Promoted Major in September 1972, he attended the Army Staff College at Camberly as a student. He completed the course in December 1973 and in January 1974 he rejoined the Bn as a Coy Comd. serving at Colchester, Belize and Northern Ireland until December 1975.

In January 1976 he was posted to Hong Kong as GSO2 Intelligence Co-ordinator. Returning to the UK in mid 1978, he retired from the Army in September of that year. Following his military service he took up residency in Guernsey where initially he was the General Manager of a Conference Organising Agency. In 1981 he set up his own business in Marketing and Project Management Consultancy of which he was Managing Director. He was also a Freelance Journalist. In 1981/82 He was the Secretary of the Guernsey Branch, BIM and a Member of the Committee of Management, Guernsey Citizens Advice Bureau. Since 1981 he has been a Council Member of the Guernsey National Trust.
He is succeeded by his wife Barbara and three children to whom we extend our condolences.

Major General Peter J. Bush OBE. - RIP - 11th June 2009

Peter John Bush was born at Boxford, Berkshire, on May 31 1924 and educated at Maidenhead County School. He joined the Army in 1943 and, after nine months as a trooper in the Royal Horse Guards, was commissioned into the Somerset Light Infantry (Prince Albert's).

He went to the Commando Basic Training Centre and, in December 1944, joined 9 Commando in Italy, seeing action at Lake Comacchio and the Argenta Gap, east of Bologna.

At the end of the war he returned to England and joined 3 Commando. When the Army Commandos disbanded, he was posted to 1st Battalion, the Somerset Light Infantry (1 SLI) in India. He was a very young adjutant of the battalion during the period of unrest which preceded partition and the granting of independence to India and Pakistan. After a spell with Germany, in 1954 he rejoined 1 SLI in Malaya, where it was engaged in counter-insurgency operations. Two years as training major with Bristol University Officers Training Corps was followed by regimental service as a company commander at Warminster and in BAOR with The Somerset & Cornwall Light Infantry.

He was appointed chief instructor at Old College, RMA Sandhurst in 1963 and, in 1966, he established and commanded a new battalion, The Light Infantry Volunteers. Widely dispersed, with an HQ in Shrewsbury, and rifle companies in Durham, Wakefield, Hereford and Truro, it was a considerable challenge. He was appointed OBE in 1968.

Peter Bush returned to Malaya as GSO 1 at 17 Division, Malaya District and later, during the final withdrawal of British and Commonwealth troops, he became the last AA & QMG, Malaya Area. A successful spell at the Ministry of Defence led to his appointment as Commander 3 Infantry Brigade in Northern Ireland in 1971.

His HQ was set up in a commandeered ladies' underwear factory in Portadown (nicknamed "Knickers") and he was responsible for antiterrorist operations in rural areas. He was mentioned in despatches.

In 1974 he returned to Sandhurst as Assistant Commandant. Promoted major-general in 1977, he became Chief of Staff and head of the UK delegation to the planning group at Shape, code-named Live Oak, then responsible for safeguarding freedom of access to Berlin for the Allies.

On his retirement from the Army in 1979, he was Controller of the Army Benevolent Fund until 1986.

Unusually, Bush achieved high rank despite his lack of formal staff training and without commanding a regular battalion. His many friends attributed his success to his engaging yet strong personality, integrity and good sense. Tall and athletic, he was a good tennis and hockey player and a fine skier.

Settled at Maidenhead, he enjoyed whippet coursing and fly fishing on the Test and the Avon.

He was Colonel The Light Infantry from 1977 to 1982.

Peter Bush died on June 12. He married, in 1948, Jean Hamilton. She predeceased him, and he is survived by their two sons and a daughter.

Bert Statton 23735886 - died 4th June 2009 - Tribute Page

The service was conducted in the presence of a almost full church including a sizeable group of his regimental family. It was particularly heartening to be so readily welcomed and embraced by Bert’s family themselves in their time of great sadness. I am pleased to report that Bert was afforded a most moving service and a thoroughly good
send off, which included the sounding of “The Last Post” - John Pover

Tribute by John Pover

Bugler Bert Statton
Truly a Soldiers, Soldier
RIP

In a week in which thousands of our countrymen remember the sacrifice of those who went before us, a rather smaller but nevertheless equally saddened group of old comrades mourn the passing of one of their own.
Bugler (Bert) Statton, who joined the newly formed Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry in 1960 served with distinction throughout the world and was in every sense a soldiers, soldier.

As a Bugler, Bert was one of what many considered an elite group of men, men who under the stern leadership of Bugle Major’s Smith and Hill worked tirelessly to present a pristine and highly professional face of the Regiment to an international audience.
From the rarefied atmosphere of NATO Headquarters in Paris, to the Olympic Stadium in Berlin before a hundred thousand spectators, Bert along with his Bugle Platoon colleagues thrilled audiences with his precise military skills and Bugling prowess. With the rest of us he wore lines in the tarmac square at Osnabruck so much drill and Bugle practice did he undertakes before the Paris trip.
In those short periods when he wasn’t marching up and down or practicing his Bugling skill he served the Regiment well in the sport arena by his membership of The Battalion Tug-of-War Team, a team which sweep all before it in what was then known as BOAR.
Of course life in the Regiment was not all work, the social element of any soldiers life is extremely important as a bonding mechanism, and in that mechanism Bert was a significant gog wheel, he was always the one who however much “falling over water” he consumed remained sober, certainly sober enough to get the less capable among us back to barracks and for some inexplicable reason he always had twenty marks in his pocket to help out his less thrifty mates.
As with those young men of today serving their nation in hostile surroundings across the world Bert saw his fair share of the rigours of anti terrorism during the bloody conflict in Aden where Bert adopted the other face of the Regimental Bugler by switching to being a very effective infantryman.
Throughout those sometimes dark days on active service when we lost colleagues to the bomb or gunshot, Bert was always there to extend the arm of comfort in our hour of grief, for those caring actions we all thank him in our quite moments.
We of the military family know that Bert will have answered the final Bugle call with fortitude and strength, the characteristics which set him apart as a true “Soldiers, Soldier, we are comforted in our grief to know that the Bugle Platoon up there will be strengthened by his arrival.
Bert will be sadly missed by all who knew him, both in his military and civilian roles; his passing has left a great hole in the hearts of his Regimental colleagues and also in the hearts of his family to whom Bert’s Regimental family extend their deepest sympathy and condolences at this time of great sadness.

John Pover
June 6th 2009

Tribute by Trevor Nottingham

I Served with Bert Statton in the SCLI .He was a wonderful man always willing to help and listen with a good sense of humour .I last met up with him and other ex SCLI Buglers at the 2007 reunion at Taunton .And it was a proud moment to see and talk to him after so many years.

SOUND OUT LOUD YOU BUGLES OVER THE RICH DEAD THERE IS NONE OF THESE SO LONELY AND POOR OF OLD BUT DYING HAS MADE US: RARER GIFTS THAN PURE GOLD

RIP Old Friend. - [Trevor Nottingham]

Tribute by Nelson Bassett.

The news of the death of 'Bert Satton' which I received via SCLI site, came to me as a profound shock and sorrow. I thought that you all, especially his family, ex bugles, would like to know how much I share your loss.
Bert and I joined the Army together ,at Redruth in Cornwall in 1959, I believe Bert was the first man to join the newly formed regiment called the ,'The Somerset & Cornwall Light Infantry' a regiment who would go on and make history.
I am sure that this must be only one of a large number of letters which the Family & the SCLI Site are bound to receive from the many other friends which 'Bert' made during a lifetime spent simply being ,'BertSatton ' .

Tribute by Bob Bogan BEM

Hi All,
Bert! (Bugler Statton) what you have left behind in this world, cannot be captured and written on a stone monument.

It is already woven into the hearts, and lives of your family, friends, also your comrades of The Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry you met and served with on your journey through life.

Rest in Peace Bugler Bert Statton.
I will be with you in mind and spirit always.We all have thousands of wonderful memories time cannot erase.

Sandy Sanders 14406702 - died March 2009 aged 84 - On amalgamation he was platoon Sgt of 8 platoon in C Company. He left the Battalion in May 61 to go to KOYLI his final rank was C/Sgt. . He was an old soldier as he joined The Hampshire Regiment on 25th Sept 1942 and served in Burma, he had the Burma Star as well as 1939/45 star, Defence Medal and Victory Medal - GSM Malaya (earned twice as he was with 1 KOYLI from June 48 until Sept 51 and SomLI from April 53 until Sept 55) he was awarded two MIDs and of course he had his LS & GC.

Ray Hall attended the funeral on 9th April and was the only regimental rep present although "Bugle Major" was there to play last post and reveille.

Anthony George Field

Died 19th February 2009, aged 62yrs. Anthony was born in Yorkshire in February 1946 and enlisted into the SCLI in May 1963. Following training he joined the Battalion in Berlin serving as a Rifleman. He later served in Aden and Gravesend as a driver. When the Bn. was posted to Ireland, Anthony was posted to the LI Training Depot at Shrewsbury where he was employed as an Officers Mess Orderly. This was to be his final posting and he retired from the army in May 1969. He returned to Dewsbury, West Yorkshire where he took up employment in the Textile Industry. As a result off ill health he was forced to take early retirement in 2003 at the age of 57.
He leaves a wife and family. RIP. ....