Mr. and Mrs John Randles (late of 33, Ridley-street Birkenhead) have received news that their son, Sergt. John Randles (Jack), of the 1/4 Cheshire Regt., has been killed in Egypt. In a letter to the parents announcing the occurrence, Sergt. Rixon says that Sergt. Randles was leading his platoon when a shell exploded, killing him instantly. He was the most popular soldier in the regiment, and had a kind and cheery disposition.
Sergeant Rixon adds:
We have completed the little cross over his grave in memory of one of the finest pals and soldiers we have ever had the pleasure to meet. His death has caused a treble loss – firstly, you have lost a noble son, secondly, I have lost the best pal a man ever had, and thirdly, our regiment has lost one if not its best N.C.O. and soldier.
Sergeant Randles, before joining the 1/4th Cheshires was in the 8th King’s Liverpool Regt., serving eight years in India and four years in the Reserve, afterwards joining the National Reserve. He was mobilised at the outbreak of war, remaining in England until July, 1915, when he was drafted out. He was shot through the right cheek in the landing at Suvla Bay. After being in hospital several weeks he again went into action,
In civil life Sergeant Randles was second gardener to Mrs Wilson, “Stokesay,” Vyner-road, Bidston.
John “Jack” Randles was born on 21st August, 1881 on the Wirral, Cheshire and was the son of John Randles and Emma Bird. He was one of 9 children, having 4 brothers and 4 sisters.
He died on 6th November, 1917 in Jerusalem. He was 36 years old.
Sergeant John Randles is buried in Israel at the Jerusalem Memorial, and is commemorated on the St Oswald’s Church Memorial in Bidston.
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