November 13, 1953

ONE of the founders of the Redditch branch of the British Legion, Mr John Cross, of 87 Sillins Avenue, Redditch, with Mrs Cross celebrated his golden wedding last Thursday.

They were married on November 5, 1903, at Brunswick Road Baptist Church, Gloucester - both are natives of Gloucester.

In the reign of Queen Victoria, Mr Cross joined the Royal Garrison Artillery, a volunteer force, at Plymouth, and on the outbreak of the First World War he enlisted in the King's Shropshire Light Infantry - the 'Pals' - until he was released in 1919 when he was quartermaster.

He served with the regiment in France, Germany and Belgium.

Mr Cross was secretary of the Redditch branch of the British Legion for 14 years and was made vice-president in appreciation of his services for the organisation.