SHEFFIELD'S VICTORIA CROSS HOLDERS

 

Whilst researching the life and army career of Arnold Loosemore, I was informed that there were at least six other holders of the Victoria Cross that had a connection with the Sheffield area. The six were

Of the six, only two Arnold Loosemore, and James Firth were born, and buried in Sheffield. John Raynes and William Allen were both born in Sheffield but after the 1914 - 1918 war left Sheffield and are buried in Leeds and Bracklesham (West Sussex) respectively. George Lambert and Arthur Procter came from Northern Ireland and Bootle (Lancashire) respectively but died in Sheffield. George is buried in Wardsend Cemetery whilst Arthur is remembered by a memorial tablet in Sheffield Cathedral. James Welch was neither born or buried in Sheffield but spent most of his working life in the city.

The initial indications were that James Firth was born in Durham - an article in the Sheffield Star dated 16th March 2004 stated that he was born in Jarrow, Co Durham. However I have since received proof, by way of his birth certificate, that states he was definitely born in Sheffield.

Finally as a footnote, there are no actual privileges bestowed to VC holders. The only thing they are entitled to, other than having VC after their name, is an annual pension.

When the VC was first instituted a special pension of £10 per year was made payable to all non-commissioned ranks. In July 1898 it was decided this amount might be increased in times of need, at discretion, to £50 then later to £75. It was not until 1959 that the pension was allowed irrespective of rank and increased to £100. In 1995 it was increased to £1300 and at that time there were 33 recipients still alive.
 

Main Sources

The London Gazette

Victoria Cross Research

Victoria Cross Reference

Victoria Cross

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This page was last updated on 29/10/09 15:35