It is with sadness and regret that I have to announce that our friend and colleague JAMES BREWSTER, “JIM”, aged 81 years, passed away peacefully at the Douglas MacMillan Hospice, Blurton. Stoke-on-Trent, on Tuesday, 4th June 2013, following a two year battle with lung cancer.

He joined the Royal Army Medical Corps as a National Serviceman in 1953. After initial training he was posted to B.M.H. Catterick. Shortly afterwards, at the time of the first Suez Crisis, he was posted to B.M.H. Fayid, in Egypt, where he remained for the rest of his service. For this tour he was awarded the General Service Medal with Canal Zone clasp.

After leaving the Forces he had a number of different jobs, most of which involved H.G.V. Driving. During one of his journeys into Staffordshire he met, and later married, his second wife Brenda, his first marriage having ended in divorce.  Sadly Brenda passed away some 9 years ago, and there were no children of the marriage.

He became a member of the North Midlands Branch 8 years ago, and has been a stalwart member ever since, readily involving himself in all activities particularly enjoying Corps Sunday and Arboretum visits. These 8 years pale into insignificance with the fact that he has been a member of the Royal British Legion since he was 17 years old (64 years!), and at the time of his death he was Vice President of both Kingsley & Tean, Staffs, branches.  He had many varied interests, was an avid gardener, and entered local shows, a member of the Probus Club, a keen photographer, and was very adept on his computer (a Silver Surfer). He will be sadly missed by both his family and numerous friends.

His Funeral, conducted by Rev. Carol Richards, was held at St. Werburgh’s Church, Kingsley, on 13th June 2013, followed by Cremation. Standard Bearers, both Military and Royal British Legion were in attendance, and a Guard of Honour was mounted by members of this Branch and R.B.L. members.

Our condolences to his Brother, Sister, and all the family.

 R.l.P. JIM.