William Coltman VC - The Story of Two Crosses

[iain mchenry]

I had the fortune of meeting Anthony Tideswell last week. A retired teacher from North Staffs, he has just had published a book he has wriiten on William "Bill" Coltman VC, a stretcher bearer of the 1/6th Bn North Staffs. many of you are aware of Bills story, but for those who are not, he was awarded his VC for actions at Mannequin Hill near Sequehart in October 1918.

The book is not a history of WW1, more an informative story of Bills life. The author, like Bill, deeply religous, and belonging to a non-conformist Christian group, The Brethren, has gone a long way working with the Coltman family to describe Bill and how his faith and beliefs fitted in with the First World War. The book, written on the request of Bills Grandchildren, is a wonderful story of Bills life before, during and after WW1 and WW2. When Bill Coltman passed away in 1974, his coffin was graced with no less than 12 awards/medals: The VC, DCM and Bar, MM and Bar, 1915 Star, War Medal, Victory Medal with MiD oak leaf, Defence Medal, King George VI Coranation Medal, Special Constabulary Medal and Queen Elizabeth II Coranation Medal. The book is only 83 pages long but provides the reader with a very important insight into the beliefs of this man.

The book (Tentmaker Publications) can be obtained by phoning the Author, Tony Tideswell, on (UK) 01782 776796 (Tony has given me his permission to print his contact number on the GWF). The book costs £5.50p including postage. ALL proceeds of the sale of the book go to the Mercian Regiment for the care and Welfare of disabled service personnel.

Regards

Iain