A meeting of A.R.P. and First Aid workers was about to open on Wednesday evening at the Court Estate near Rushden, when Mr Harry Gadsden, a warden, who had just arrived from Newton Bromshold, collapsed in his chair and died almost immediately.

About 15 persons were present under the Area Warden, Mr L Woodley, of Rushden, at the Warden’s Post on Mr Kingsley’s farm at the junction of Bedford-road and Avenue-road.

A message was sent to Dr. Cotter, who soon arrived from Rushden and the meeting as abandoned.

Mr Gadsden was 49 years of age, and resided at Newton Bromshold, being churchwarden and organist at the Parish Church. His wife is headmistress of the village school.

Mr Woodley stated on Thursday that Mr Gadsden cycled to the meeting and arrived at 7.40 looking quite normal and happy. Just before his collapse he told his companions that he would be going to work at 3 o’clock in the morning.

“He was a gentleman who was respected by everybody, and in the Warden’s Service he always took his part in whatever was to be done. He was a charming fellow, and such men as he can ill be spared,” said Mr Woodley.

Formerly in the employ of Messrs Haigh and Son, Mr Gadsden had lately been on Government work.

P.C. Neal removed the body to Mr Gadsden’s home, and reported to the East Northants Coroner, who found that an inquest would not be necessary.