John's Story.
Birkenhead News 22 December 1917POPULAR BIDSTON SERGT. KILLED.
Mr. and Mrs. John Randles (late of 33, Ridley Street, Birkenhead) have received the sad news that their son, Sergt. John Randles (Jack), of the 1/4 Cheshire Regt., has been killed in Eygpt. In a letter to the parents announcing this 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 always 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.”
Sergt. 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 Sergt. Randles was second gardener to Mrs. Wilson, “Stokesay,” Viner Road, Bidston.
John Randles' name on the Bidston War Memorial
John Randles photograph, newspaper article and war memorial photograph by Chris Booth.