2 June 2017

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

The East Grinstead Social and Ex-Services Club made a presentation to the Chelsea pensioners of a ‘missing’ photograph taken in 1916 of The Royal Tank Regiment at their Members’ Day, Thursday, May 25th, 2017.

The photograph was found and rescued from a house clearance in Rutland Gate, Kinghtsbridge, by Mr Alex McLean in the 1970’s. It remained in his possession until he passed away on March 17th, 2011, St. Patrick’s Day.

The photograph was then donated to the East Grinstead Social & Ex Services Club by Mrs Anne Teagues, his daughter and long-time member of the Club.

After some research by fellow-member Bill Towers (ex Military Police), its secret was discovered…it turned out to be the missing photograph out of a set held at the tank regiments’ museum!

The photograph was presented to the Regiment by East Grinstead Town Mayor, Julie Mockford, together with Anne Teague, and will now reside at the Regiments’ Museum in Dorset.

Present, on the day with Mayor Julie Mockford, were Frank Cohen, Helen Andrews, Mary Johnston, Carl Hayhurst and Anne Teague (holding the photograph).

The Club celebrated its 70th birthday last year and, since it has opened its’ doors to non ex-service members, membership has increased and the club is thriving and happy to welcome new members.

You can contact the club on 01342 321 384.