Many congratulations from Rushden will reach Mr. and Mrs. George Robert Turner, of "Rusholme," Garnham-road, Gorleston-on-Sea, celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary on Sunday. Mr. and Mrs. Turner were natives of London, and their wedding place at Putney Church, Surrey, on August 26, 1874. They came to Rushden on March 31, 1885, Mr. Turner having been appointed Relieving Officer to the Wellingborough Board of Guardians and Registrar of Births and Deaths in Rushden and the neighbouring villages. Mr. Turner held these positions until his retirement in 1924, and his wife was Deputy Registrar for the same period.
At the age of 83 Mr. Turner can look back with pride on an interesting and honourable career as fire-fighter, Volunteer Force officer, and sportsman.
As a young man he served in the 2nd Middlesex Volunteers, and when the Great War broke out he was appointed to command the Rushden Volunteer Company of the 2nd Northamptonshire Regiment receiving the permanent rank of Lieutenant. Although well past 60, he performed this work with ability and zeal, having the energy much younger man.
From 1886 Mr. Turner belonged to various London fire brigades, gaining great experience. He was for 25 years an invaluable second officer and secretary of the Rushden Volunteer Fire Brigade, and on his retirement became an honorary officer. He was a useful cricketer, and as evidence of his youthful spirit is the fact that little more than ten years ago he took up motor-cycling.
For several years Mr. and Mrs. Turner have been living at Gorleston, but they still keep in touch with Rushden and value their old friends in the town.
The King and Queen have sent them congratulations.
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