And FOUND!
LAST year, we ran an item on Michael Morgan of Oswestry, Shropshire. He told us: ‘Between 1957 and 1959, I served in the Royal Army Service Corps at the Depot Battalion in Bordon, Hants, where I joined the Corps of Drums as a side drummer.
‘The band was run by Company Sergeant Major Cliff “Jet” Morgan (no relation). Band practice excused me from the morning inspection parade, which was lucky, as the battalion was ruled by a very tough adjutant disciplinarian.
‘Most of the band lived in the same barracks, so we were a close-knit group. I often wonder what happened to these guys and would love to hear from them.’
We’ve already reunited him with one of his old compadres, Joe Andrews, who has fond memories of Michael and the rest of the band. Now 81, Joe lives near Chesterfield. He’s not been in great health lately, but this reunion cheered him up.
Now David Capel Jones has emailed: ‘I also played in the Corps of Drums with Michael. I have photos of the band members, on and off parade, and performing at the Cheshire Homes Charity Fete in Liss in July 1957, which was opened by Richard Dimbleby. Happy memories.’ Michael concludes: ‘Thanks to your column I have reconnected with men I served with, and sent and received many photos of band members, as well as speaking to them by phone and via emails. Our lively and humorous correspondence is continuing.
‘Your assistance won’t be forgotten, we’re all most grateful. Though now in our late 70s, amazingly, our memories of the Corps of Drums are still fresh in our minds.’
there is someone you would like to trace, write to Gill Whitley, 1 Newbrook house, New hall Lane, Preston, Pr1 5Pe, enclosing an SAe, or send an email to monica.porter@dailymail. co.uk — including a contact phone number. All communications will be answered as soon as possible. this column is researched with the aid of Peopletracer (www.peopletracer.co.uk). A small donation will be requested for employing Gill Whitley’s services.