King's Shilling

 

Was a guest at Cedar Court Care Home (near Cranleigh) where in front of the residents I, a retired military Chaplain, serving soldiers and veterans handed out “5p pieces” (aka “the King’s Shilling”) to  some 50 children invited from Cranleigh School as we told them about events on the Western Front 100 years ago. I was able (briefly, it was very hot) to talk about my grandfather, killed on the first day of Paschendale 31st July 1917, whose name is inscribed on the Menin Gate, Ypres as he has no known grave.  I will be returning there on the 31st July to lay a wreath in his memory but also, as High Sheriff, wreaths for two Surrey Regiments.