Melbourn, Robert William, 21, Police Constable, St. Albans City Police.

PC 21 Robert William Melbourn

Early Life.

Robert William Melbourn, known as Bob, was born on the 7th July 1913 at 16, Silvester Lane, Beverley, Yorkshire. At the time of his birth Robert’s mother, Gertie Edmunds, was recorded as being employed as a Domestic Servant.

His mother was born on the 6th January 1897 at Beverley. In the 1911 census she was recorded as living with her parents at 16, Silvester Lane, Beverley.

Gertie’s mother, Ada Edmunds, registered Robert’s birth as Robert William Edmunds on the 29th July 1913 and he was baptised in the same name on 5th September 1913 at St Mary’s Church, Beverley. Their address was shown as 16, Silvester Lane, Beverley. No father’s name was recorded.

On 6th April 1915, again at St Mary’s, Beverley, Gertie Edmunds, aged 18 years and a spinster of 16, Silvester Lane, Beverley, married George William Melbourn of Darlington, aged 20 years (born 4th May 1894), a bachelor and employed as a house painter. Gertie recorded her father as a labourer called Robert Edmunds.

George and Gertie went on to have a son George William Melbourn born in 1916 and 2 daughters, Ada Emley Melbourn in 1920 and Vera Melbourn in 1923.

During the 1921 census the family were living at 7, Silvester Lane, Beverley. Robert’s stepfather was still working as a painter and Robert, who was recorded as being a son, although his surname was shown as Edmunds, was attending school full time.

At some point after this Robert started to use Melbourn (occasionally seen as Melbourne) as his surname. It is not known if he was legally adopted by his stepfather or if he decided to simply use the same name as the rest of his family.

Certainly, by 1924 when he started at Beverley Grammar School he was recorded as Robert William Melbourne. In July 1930 Robert received his school certificate having studied Scripture, English, History, Geography, French, Latin, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Additional Mathematics, Art, Music and Handicraft and passed with credit in English Literature, Mathematics and Chemistry.

From information contained in his Police Service record it is known that before he enlisted in the Army Robert was employed as a Junior Clerk with Messrs. Briggs & Powell Ltd. Hardware Factors, Beverley between March and June 1931 and then as  a Clerk with Messrs. East Yorkshire Motor Services Ltd, Driffield between June 1931 and August 1932.

Robert William Melbourn Army Service.

Robert’s Army Service Record is held by the Ministry of Defence, but we know from documents that are publicly available and his Police Service Record that he enlisted in the in the Coldstream Guards as Guardsman 2655658 on the 22nd August 1932 to serve for 4 years in the Colours  and 8 years in the Reserves.

Guardsman Melbourn passed his Second Class Certificate of Education at Caterham in November 1932 in English, Army and Empire, Map Reading and Mathematics.

Guardsman Melbourn passed his First Class Certificate of Education at Aldershot in March 1936 in English, Mathematics, Geography and Map Reading.

On the 21st August 1936 he was discharged to the Army Reserve on the expiration of his period of Colour Service.

Robert William Melbourn Police Service.

Robert’s Police Service Record has survived and contains an extraordinary amount of information beginning with his application to join the St. Albans City Police. The Chief Constable referred to in this account was Herbert William George Thorpe who was the Chief Constable of the St. Albans City Police between 1933 and 1947. He had previously served in the Coldstream Guards through the First World War.

Headhunted.

A letter dated 28th May 1936 on behalf of the Lieutenant Colonel Commanding Coldstream Guards, Regimental Headquarters Birdcage Walk, S.W.1 to the Chief Constable’s Office, St. Albans, Herts, stated: Dear Sir, With further reference to your letter of 21st May 1936, regarding the vacancy for the office of Constable in your Force. I have received replies from all Battalions of the Regiment and, owing to a change in the terms of service with the Colours which means our normal outflow of men leaving does not commence until July next, I have only one name to submit for your consideration. This man, Guardsman R.W. Melbourn, 3rd Battalion Coldstream Guards, holds a First Class Army Certificate of education and fulfils the other requirements for your Force. I enclose Army Form B.2073 and an application in the man’s own handwriting for your consideration. Should you wish to interview this man I should be glad to make the necessary arrangements for him to attend when convenient to you. I thank you for giving your old Regiment the opportunity of submitting names for your Police Force.

Army Form B.2073 entitled Application for Employment in a Police Force, dated 23rd May 1936 was completed by J.C. Wynne-Finch Commander Coldstream Guards, Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot, contained the following details: 2655268 Guardsman Robert William Melbourn enlisted on the 22nd August 1932 in the 3rd Battalion Coldstream Guards. On the 21st August 1936 he was to be transferred to the Army Reserve on expiration of his period of Colour Service. He was born on the 7th July 1913 at Beverley, Yorkshire. He was 5 feet 11 ½ ins tall, chest 39 ins to 36 ins, unmarried, home address, 17 Morton Lane, Beverley, Yorkshire. He had a First Class Army Certificate of Education but had no knowledge of motor vehicles. He had no entries in his Regimental Conduct Sheet. The following observation was made: A very good man always smart and clean. Has very good intelligence, 1st Class Certificate. A reliable man who I recommend for the Police.

Robert also wrote a letter to the Chief Constable dated 23rd May 1936 from Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot which stated: Sir, I am at present serving in the 3rd Battalion Coldstream Guards and am desirous of obtaining an appointment of Constable in the St. Albans Constabulary. I enlisted into the 3rd Battalion Coldstream Guards on 22nd August 1932 and am due for transfer to the Army Reserve on 21st August 1936. I am twenty-two years of age and have obtained the Army First Class Certificate of Education. My measurements are Chest deflated 36 ins, expanded 39 ins, height (bare feet)  5 ft 11 ¼ ins, weight 172 lbs. Hoping you will give this, my application, every consideration. I am Sir your obedient servant R.W. Melbourn Guardsman (2655608).

On the 2nd June 1936 Robert completed the St. Albans City Police Application for Appointment as Constable form. He entered the following answers in his own handwriting, Name: Robert William Melbourn, Address: 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guards, Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot, Date and place of birth: 7th July 1913 Beverley E. Yorkshire, Parent’s nationality: British, Trade: clerk, Marital status: single, Children: nil, School standard: matriculation, Date left: March 1931, Further education: secured Army 3rd, 2nd, 1st Class Certificates of Education, Regimental Signaller 1933 – 1936, Member of Trade Union: no, Debt free: Yes, Any convictions: no, Any previous applications to join Police: no, Military Service: 2655658 Guardsman 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guard from 22/8/32 to 21/8/36 on transfer to Army Reserve, Liable to further service: liable as Reservist from 22/8/36 to 21/8/44, Suffered illness whilst serving: no. He then provided details of his previous employment. Robbert’s signature was witnessed by Sergeant 48 [name unreadable Ed.] Hampshire Constabulary Aldershot. The same officer certified Robert’s measurements as height: 5 feet 11 ins., chest: expanded 38 ½ ins. deflated 36 ins., weight 11 stone 9 lbs. The Police Surgeon, Dr. Ronald E. Wilson completed a certificate which is described later. He also supplied details of five people who were prepared to supply him with Testimonials. They were: F.J. Ashby Alderman, The Woodlands, Beverley; Mr. H. Davidson a Director of Briggs & Powell Ltd., Hardware Factors, Beverley; C.H. Burden of 27A New Walk, Beverley; Lieutenant Colonel J.C. Wynne-Finch Commander 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guards and Captain J. Bevan 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guards.

Robert wrote on the 5th June 1936 to the Chief Constable: Sir, I must apologise for the delay in returning the completed application form, but I had some difficulty in obtaining the signatures of the persons from whom testimonials are submitted. I am enclosing the original testimonials and Certificate of Education, together with a recent photograph. Trusting that this will meet with your favourable consideration. I am Sir your obedient servant R.W. Melbourn Guardsman (2655608).

Testimonials.

Dated 31st January 1931 from Mr. Fred J. Ashby 33, North Bar, Beverley wrote: As a scholar in the Wesley Sunday School (of which I am Superintendent) I have known Robert Melbourne for 10 years. He has behaved well, and I believe him to be honest and straightforward, and I will follow his career with great interest. Yours faithfully Fred J. Ashby. Robert’s file also contains a St. Albans City Police Certificate of Enquiry dated 9th June 1936 which PC 125 Nolan of the East Riding Constabulary certified that he had visited Mr. Ashby at 30 Woodlands, Beverley and had both verified the testimonial and certified that Mr. Ashby was a suitable person to be believed.

Dated 2nd June 1931 from Mr. H. Davidson a Director of Briggs & Powell Ltd., Hardware Factors, Beverley wrote: To whom it may concern, The bearer Robert Melbourne has been in our employ for the last three months i.e., since finishing his education at the Beverley Grammar School. We have employed him as a Junior Clerk & he has given entire satisfaction, we shall be sorry to part with him & are sure he will give satisfaction to anyone employing him. Yours truly for Briggs & Powell Ltd. H. Davidson. Again, there is a St. Albans City Police Certificate of Enquiry dated 9th June 1936 which PC 125 Nolan of the East Riding Constabulary certified that he had visited Mr. Davidson of Briggs & Powell Ltd., Beverley and had both verified the testimonial and certified that Mr. Davidson was a suitable person to be believed.

Dated the 21st November 1935 from Mr. C.H. Burden of 27A New Walk, Beverley wrote: Mr. R.W. Melbourn was a pupil at the Beverley Grammar School from 1924 to 1931. He possessed intelligence above the average, worked well and made good progress, securing his School Certificate, with the ‘Good’ mark in Mathematics, before leaving. He was not a mere book worm but took his full share with sports activities of the school. His character was very good, and I have no hesitation in recommending him to those who require assistance which entails intelligence, trustworthiness and willingness to work. I shall be pleased to answer any questions arising out of this testimonial. C.H. Burden B.A. B.Sc. (London) Headmaster Beverley Grammar Scholl till 1934. Again, there is a St. Albans City Police Certificate of Enquiry dated 17th June 1936 which PC 125 Nolan of the East Riding Constabulary certified that he had visited Mr. C.H. Burden of 27A New Walk, Beverley and had both verified the testimonial and certified that Mr. Burden was a suitable person to be believed.

On the 4th June 1936 Lieutenant Colonel J.C. Wynne-Finch wrote to the Chief Constable: Sir, R.W. Melbourn 3rd Battalion Coldstream Guards, I have known personally the above named since he has been in the battalion under my command. He is a very good man with a very good record, and I can recommend him for the Police, and I consider him very suitable. Again, there is a St. Albans City Police Certificate of Enquiry dated 12th June 1936 which PS Jefferies of the Hants Constabulary certified that he had visited Lieutenant Colonel J.C. Wynne-Finch and had both verified the testimonial and certified that Lieutenant Colonel J.C. Wynne-Finch was a suitable person to be believed.

On the 5th June 1936 Captain J. Bevan of the Coldstream Guards, Barrosa Barracks, Aldershot wrote: This is to state that I have known Guardsman Melbourn personally for the last 3 years. During this time, he has always done his duty consistently well. He is always well turned out and clean & smart in appearance. He is intelligent and reliable and should in my opinion do very well in civil employment in a position of trust. The St. Albans City Police Certificate of Enquiry in relation to this testimonial is missing but there is a covering letter from Hants Constabulary stating that two were returned completed satisfactorily.

Interview and Medical.

On the 10th June 1936 the Chief Constable wrote to Robert: Dear Sir, I have to inform you that your application for appointment in this Force is being considered and you will be required to attend this office for interview and medical examination in the near future. I will acquaint you immediately the date has been fixed.

On 12th June 1936 Robert acknowledged the above.

On the 14th July 1936 Robert was instructed to attend St. Albans at 9.30 a.m. on Monday 20th July for medical examination and interview.

On the 17th July 1936 Captain Bevan again wrote: Dear Sir, I am writing to you on behalf of Guardsman Melbourn of my Company, who is attending for interview with a view to appointment as a Constable in the St. Albans Police Force on Monday. I have known this man personally for the last 3 ½ years, he has been a battalion signaller and has a first class army certificate for education. He is smart, clean & energetic and is just the type to make a good Constable and I can most thoroughly recommend him  as being reliable & trustworthy in every way. I hope you will be able to take him, as he has done very well with us here & so I am anxious to try & help him to get into the Police.

Robert attended his interview on the 20th July. Contained in his file is a test in mathematics consisting of ten questions which he completed and scored 100% correct and an essay to demonstrate his English. The text of the essay is as follows: When a small boy I was struck by the way in which people in difficulties turned to the Police for advice and help, but it was not until much later that I realised just why people should place such faith in the Police. The Police represent the law and order without which there would be no civilisation, and a Policeman’s responsibilities are correspondingly great, far greater than those incurred by the ordinary citizen. It is solely through the effort of the Police, that we, in England, enjoy the comfort and security of our own homes to such a degree as no other country in the world enjoys. A Policeman’s duty may at times be irksome, but surely that is offset by the knowledge of the importance of doing his job well. It is through loyalty to this duty that the Police have built up the fine traditions of their service, of which we are all so justly proud. The Police Force is a branch of Public Service which anyone might well be proud to join.

Failed Medical.

Dr. Ronald E. Wilson, Police Surgeon, examined Robert and endorsed the certificate on his Application Form: I certify that I have examined Robert William Melbourn and consider him at present unfit for the Police Service.

On the 20th July the Chief Constable wrote to the Officer Commanding the Coldstream Guards stating: Dear Sir, Adverting to your letter of the 26th May Inst, 2655658 Guardsman R.W. Melbourn of the 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guards, attended this office today for medical examination. The Police Surgeon rejected him, as he considered he had septic tonsils and consequent high blood pressure. I explained the circumstances to Melbourn and advised him to have immediate treatment and I should be pleased if you could afford him the necessary facilities. I was greatly impressed by this candidate and do not wish to lose him. If a medical certificate could be obtained from an Army doctor certifying his fitness, I should be prepared to accept it with a view to proceeding with the appointment. I should appreciate any assistance you could render in this matter.

The Chief Constable also wrote to Captain Bevan the same day stating: Dear Sir, 2655658 Guardsman R.R. Melbourn, I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 17th instant, relative to the above named candidate for this Force, and in reply to inform you that Melbourn attended this office today for medical examination. He was rejected by the Police Surgeon on the ground of septic tonsils and consequent high blood pressure. I was greatly impressed by this man and was disappointed at being unable  to appoint him. I advised him to get immediate medical treatment and I should be pleased if you could give him any assistance. I asked him to notify me when he is cured as I am reserving a vacancy for him and hope to be able to appoint him in the very near future.

On the 21st July 1936 the Colonel of the Coldstream Guards acknowledged the Chief Constables letter and stated that Robert’s treatment was being arranged.

Surgery.

On the 21st July 1936 Robert wrote to the Chief Constable stating: Sir, With reference to my application in the St. Albans Constabulary, I am pleased to say that I have been given every facility for the removal of my tonsils. I am entering Cambridge Hospital today and expect an operation tomorrow. I shall be glad to notify you when I have been cured. Trusting this will meet with  your approval. I am Sir your obedient servant R.W. Melbourn (Guardsman), 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guards.

Robert’s surgery did not take place the following day as on the 5th August 1936 the Lieutenant Colonel 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guards wrote to the Chief Constable stating: Dear Sir, With reference  to your letter of 20th July 1936, a copy which has been forwarded to me by the Officer Commanding, Coldstream Guards. I wish to inform you that No. 2655658 Guardsman R. Melbourn, of the Battalion under my command, is to undergo an operation to have his tonsils removed, tomorrow 6th August 1936. Owing to this fact he will be unable to appear before the Watch Committee at St. Albans on Friday 7th August 1936. As Guardsman Melbourn is to undergo this operation at your request, in order that he may become an eligible applicant for the St. Albans Constabulary, I should be grateful if you would inform me if the vacancy may be held open for him. Until he is certified fit. Normally, persons who undergo operations of this kind, take about two weeks to recover.

On the 6th August 1936 the Chief Constable wrote to the Officer Commanding the 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guards stating: Dear Sir, I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 5th instant, relative to Guardsman R. Melbourn, and in reply to inform you that I am holding a vacancy in this Force for him. I hope that he will be recovered so that he may appear before the Watch Committee during the week commencing the 24th instant, so that he may proceed to Birmingham to take the training course commencing on the 28th instant. I would thank you to inform me when he is recovered so that arrangements can be made for his appointment here.

On the 14th August 1936 Lieutenant Colonel J.C. Wynne-Finch wrote to the Chief Constable stating: Dear Sir, With reference to your request in previous correspondence, please find enclosed a report certifying No, 2655658 Guardsman R. Melbourn of the Battalion under my command, fit for appointment in the St. Albans Constabulary. Guardsman Melbourn proceeds on furlough pending Transfer to the Army Reserve tomorrow and he will reside at the address shown below. I should be grateful if you would forward any further correspondence to him at that address. C/O Mrs. A. Garhard 84, Victoria Dwellings, Clerkenwell Road, London EC.1. [Robert went on to marry a Winifred Garhard of Clerkenwell Ed.]

Enclosed was a certificate stamped 13th August 1936 from the Ear, Nose & Throat Department, Cambridge Hospital, Aldershot stating: 2655658 Guardsman Melbourn R.W. 3rd Bn. Coldstream Guards. The above mentioned Guardsman has had his tonsils dissected & is fit for appointment in St. Albans Police.

The above was acknowledged by letter on the 15th August 1936. On the same day an Inspector from the Chief Constable’s Office wrote to Robert warning him that he would be required to attend St. Albans about the 25th but he would receive confirmation. On the 17th August Robert acknowledged the above by letter.

Appointed and Attested.

The Police Surgeon, Dr. Ronald E. Wilson, on the 26th August 1936 endorsed the medical certificate on Robert’s Application Form with the following: This man is now fit for Police Service.

On the same day the Chief Constable sent Robert a Post Office Telegraph instructing him to attend St. Albans at 11.45 a.m. the following day. Robert acknowledged his attendance by Telegraph.

On the 27th August 1936 Robert was appointed as Constable 21 in the St. Albans City Police. He signed the following declaration: I, Robert William Melbourn do swear that I will well and truly serve Our Sovereign Lord the King in the office of Police Constable without favour or affection malice or ill-will and I will to the best of my power cause the peace to be kept and preserved and prevent all offences against the persons and properties of his Majesty’s subjects and that while I continue to hold the said office I will to the best of my skill and knowledge discharge all the duties thereof faithfully according to law. Sworn before us this 27th August 1936. H. Mayer. P. [unreadable Ed.] Green. Two of His Majesty’s Justices of the Peace for the City of St. Alban.

On the same day the Chief Constable wrote to the Officer Commanding the Coldstream Guards to inform him of Robert’s appointment and to thank him for his assistance in the matter.

His St. Albans City Police Record of Service has also survived and shows the following. PC 21 Robert William Melbourn Appointed 28th August 1936. Age on joining 23, born 7th July 1913, height 5 ft 11 ½ ins, complexion fresh, eyes grey, hair light brown, born Beverley Yorkshire, religion Methodist, trade Soldier. Marital status was initially shown as single but later amended to married with one child. As well as passing his St. John Ambulance Association Certificate he also won a Bronze Medallion from the Royal Life Saving Society’s Awards.

Robert was paid 62/- per week from the 28th August.

Training School.

Robert attended the Birmingham City Police School between the 28th August 1936 and the 5th November 1936. On the 13th September, whilst staying at the Police Station 92 Duke Street, Birmingham Robert wrote to his Chief Constable stating: Sir, With reference to the attendance of Recruits Howell and Melbourn at the Digbeth Police School, I have to report the result of the examination held on 5th September 1936, as follows. Number of recruits examined 51. Recruit Howell 48th (148 marks), Recruit Melbourn 19th (229 marks). We are both in good health and are confident that we shall improve our position in class. I am Sir, Your obedient servant R.W. Melbourn.

On the 20th November 1936 the Chief Constable Birmingham wrote to the Chief Constable St. Albans stating: Dear Sir, Recruit Robert W. Melbourn. I have pleasure in informing you that the above named Recruit, who was in training at the Police School in Birmingham, was successful in passing an examination in First Aid on 29th October 1936. The Certificate will be forwarded in due course. Reginald Frank Howell failed in the examination.

Change of Address.

On the 12th December 1936 Robert requested to be allowed to change his address from 17 Watsons Walk, St. Albans to 18 Alban Avenue, St. Albans as his landlady, Mrs. Gregory, had been admitted to hospital with incurable heart disease. From a note written on the letter the move was apparently approved.

Marriage.

On 1st May 1937 Robert wrote to his Chief Constable with a request: I respectfully beg to request permission to be married early in June my intended wife is Miss Winifred Garhard and resides at 84 Victoria Dwellings, Clerkenwell Road, London E.C.1. She is a Clerk employed by Messrs. Gourdel Vales & Co. Ltd., Jewellers, Hatton Garden E.C.1, and has been in their employ six years. I have been keeping company with Miss Garhard for three years and we have been engaged for eighteen months. I am sure she will be a good wife and is temperamentally suited to be a Policeman’s wife. My chief reason for requesting permission to be allowed to marry is that I am in honour bound to do so. I am, Sir Your obedient servant Robert William Melbourn PC 21.

On the same day the Chief Constable wrote to the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis requesting that discreet enquiries be made to ascertain whether Winifred Garhard would be a suitable person to become the wife of a Police Officer. On the 7th May a reply was received stating that owing to difficulties experienced in dealing with these requests they were no longer carried out.

On the 2nd June 1937 Robert made another request to the Chief Constable asking: Sir, I respectfully beg to apply for permission to be married on Saturday 12th 1937. My intended wife is Miss Winifred Garhard who resides at 84 Victoria Dwellings, Clerkenwell  Road, London E.C.1. during the past 6 years she has been employed as a Clerk by Messrs. Gourdel Vales and Co. Ltd., Jewellers, Hatton Garden, London E.C.1. I also beg to apply for permission to take up residence at No. 113 Tavistock Avenue,  St. Albans, from this date and also for married man’s rent allowance, the weekly rent being 17/6. I am, Sir Your obedient servant Robert William Melbourn PC 21. These requests were approved.

On the 12th June 1937 Robert William Melbourn, a bachelor aged 23 years and a Police Constable of 113, Tavistock Avenue, St. Albans married Winifred Garhard, known as Win, at St. James Church, Clerkenwell, London. He gave his father as George William Melbourn a Painter. Winifred was born on the 7th April 1916  and was a spinster of 64, Northampton Buildings E.C.1 and gave her father as Daniel Henry Garhard an Engineer.

Robert and Winifred had a son John William Melbourn who was born on the 16th  October 1937 at 113, Tavistock Avenue, St. Albans. Robert was recorded as being a Police Constable of that address.

On the 28th August 1937 Robert’s pay was increased to 65/- per week.

On the 28th August 1938 Robert’s pay was increased to 67/6 per week.

Change of Address.

On the 30th January 1939 Robert requested to change his address: Sir, I respectfully beg to apply for permission to change my address from 113 Tavistock Avenue to 100 Victoria Street. The house is the property of Mr. E. Paul, Approach Road, and is to let at an inclusive rent of 16/6 per week, which would represent a saving of 1/1 per week. My chief reason for wishing to move is that the house is very central and combines all the conveniences of the house where I am at present living. Robert William Melbourn PC21. A note on the request shows it was approved.

On the 28th August 1939 Robert’s pay was increased to 70/- per week.

In the 1939 Register, living at 100, Victoria Street, St. Albans, is Robert William Melbourn, born on the 7th July 1913, who is shown as a Police Constable warrant number 21. It is also recorded that he was a Section B Army Reservist 2655658 of the Coldstream Guards. Living with him are Winifred and their son.

Robert William Melbourn’ s Army Service In World War 2.

On the 21st November 1939 Robert submitted a report to the Chief Constable stating: Sir, I respectfully beg to report that I did this day receive instructions to re-join my Regiment at Chelsea Barracks on the morning of Friday 1st December 1939. I am Sir Your obedient servant R.W Melbourn PC21.

In his Police file are a number of letters written by both Robert and his wife to St. Albans City Police which show a little about how their lives were and where they were stationed or living and as well as his Military promotions.

Dated the 4th December 1939 2655658 Guardsman Melbourn R., Signaller, HQ Company, Training Bn. Coldstream Guards, Pirbright Camp, Surrey wrote to the Chief Constable: as instructed by you I am enclosing a statement of pay, signed by the Officer Commanding HQ Coy. Training Bn. Coldstream Guards to which I have been assigned as Signaller. My wife has now left the City and is sharing a house with her sister at the following address: Mrs. W. Melbourn, 131 Compton Crescent, Chessington, Surrey. I trust that suitable arrangements can be made for my wife to receive the allotment made by the local authority. I am Sir, Your obedient servant R. W. Melbourn.

Attached was the statement of pay which showed Robert was to receive a daily gross rate payable as 3s 6d and the weekly family allowance payable to his wife as 22s 0d.

On the 20th February 1939 [this is believed to be an error in that logically it should be 1940 Ed.] 2655658 Guardsman R. Melbourn, No. 1 Company, T/Bn. Coldstream Guards, Sandown Park, Esher, Surrey wrote to Police Sergeant Saban: I am returning my old notebook, which you forwarded, and am sorry to think that you went to all this trouble for nothing. I was disappointed that the case was settled out of court, as I would have liked to have popped down to the office again. I am keeping fit and have been temporarily returned to duty with No.1 Company. At the moment we are doing weekly tours of Guard duty at Aerodromes, Ammunition Dumps etc. so we are pretty busy. Would you please tell Sgt. Hard I received the cigarettes he sent, and they were in good condition and were deeply appreciated. I am afraid I must close now and hope that I will shortly be able to pay another visit to St. Albans. Yours sincerely Bob Melbourn.

No. 2655658 Guardsman Melbourn R., No. 3 Company, 4/Bn., Coldstream Guards, Regents Park Barracks, London N.W.1 wrote to the Chief Constable stating: Sir, I am writing to inform you that my wife is now receiving an increase in her Army allowance of one shilling per week this increase is apparently to take effect from 1st April 1940. At the present moment I am stationed in London while 4 Battalion is doing Public Duties, although owing to the latest developments the Battalion is prepared to move at very short notice. I am pleased to say that I am keeping in good health and hope that very soon I shall once again be serving under you. My wife has asked me to convey to you her deep appreciation for the unfailing regularity in which she receives her Police Allowance. I am Sir Your obedient servant R. Melbourn PC21.

Promotion.

On 6th August 1940 2655658 Lance Corporal Melbourn, HQ Company, 2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards, Louth, Lincs. wrote to the Chief Constable: I am writing to inform you that my rate of pay has been increased to four shillings and three pence (4/3) per day. This increase is in view of my Appointment to Lance Corporal and will date from the eighteenth of last week. Trusting all is well at St. Albans.

Promoted Again.

On 9th September 1940 Robert, still in Louth, wrote: I am writing to inform you that I have been promoted to the rank of Lance Sergeant and in consequence my pay has now risen four shillings and ninepence (4/9) per day. This increment is apparently to date from 1st August 1940. I have heard with some concern of the many air raids on London and District and sincerely hope that St. Albans has not been badly damaged. My wife is at present staying with some friends of mine in North Somercotes and greatly appreciates the comparative quiet. Reverting to the question of my Military pay I have seen the Quartermaster re the 6d per day all troops are to receive in lieu of duty free tobacco, but he has received no official notification from the Regimental Paymaster and therefore no one has yet been credited with this increase. Before closing I would like to express the sincere wish that everyone at St. Albans is keeping well and would be very much obliged if you would convey to the members of the Force and Police War Reserves my kindest regards and best wishes for the future.

Again, while still in Louth Robert wrote on the 25th September 1940: I am writing to inform you that I am now receiving the sixpence per day granted to members of H.M. Forces in lieu of duty free tobacco. Mrs. Melbourn has asked me to query the Police Allotment and I am of the opinion that she is being overpaid in respect of her Rent Allowance which is shown as 4/-. I can understand the annual increase in my Gross Pay but can only conclude that some mistake has occurred in the case of the Rent Allowance. I am very pleased to say that both my wife and I are keeping very well and hope that all the members of the Force are fit and well and that no serious damage has been done to the City during the recent air raids in the London area. I would be grateful if you would convey to the members of the Force my kindest regards and best wishes.

Once again whilst still at Louth Robert wrote: Dear Sergeant, [no name is given but it was likely to have been Sgt. Saban Ed.] I was very pleased to receive your letter and am so glad that everyone at home is keeping fit and well. I have often wondered how you were all getting on since the “attack” on London started. I had a letter from Eddie Craig about a fortnight ago and he said the A.A. Barrage was terrific. Everything is extremely quiet here since the invasion scare 3 weeks ago – Jerry no longer bothers us but passes straight on inland and ii don’t think we have had a bad night for weeks now. Anyway, I hope they don’t drop any heavy stuff on the City and that soon we shall have got over all this so we can all look forward to settling down to normal conditions again. I’ve just about given up all hope of getting back before peace is declared so it can’t finish too quickly for me. Win is still staying on here and I hope she will do so until the raids in London “ease off” a bit, although I am expecting to move to winter quarters this month. The extra money towards the rent is appreciated very much and I hope it wasn’t just a war time measure. Please remember me to all the chaps and give them my best regards. Hoping to see you again very shortly. Good luck, Yours sincerely Bob Melbourn.

On the 7th November 1940 Robert’s wife, giving her address as Old Mill House, North Somercotes, Louth,  wrote to the Chief  Constable saying: I wish to inform you of an increase of 2/6 in my Army Allowance which started from 4/11/40.

Dated the 26th May 1941 Robert’s wife, who was now at 27 Compton Crescent, Chessington, Surrey wrote to the Chief Constable: Dear Sir, As you will see by the above address I have come back to Chessington and would appreciate it if you would send my registered letter to this address. I sent you a telegram on Friday asking you not to send it to Brocklesby. I hope you received it in time. Yours sincerely Mrs. W. Melbourn.

On the 3rd June 1941 she again wrote:  Dear Sir, I have just had a telegram from Bob to say he is going abroad very soon, so I am leaving straight away to go to Brocklesby again until he leaves. I would be grateful if you would hold registered letter back until you hear from  me again as I don’t know yet how long I will be away.

On the 9th June 1941 Robert’s wife, who was staying at C/O Mrs. Braden, Brocklesby, Habrough, [Lincs. Ed.] wrote: Will you please send registered envelope to Chessington as I will be returning there Wednesday evening Bob is leaving here sometime this week.

On the 5th April 1942 2655658 Lance Sergeant Melbourn, HQ Company, 2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards, Blairgowrie, Perthshire wrote: Dear Sgt. Saban, I am writing to inform you that my Army Pay has been increased by 6d per diem from 28/3/42. This increase is in respect of married man’s allowance. As you will see by the address, we have been moved to Blairgowrie which is a small town about 15 miles north of Perth. We only moved in yesterday and the previous occupants were Poles, so you can guess everything was in a pretty bad state. But when we get settled down, I think that we shall be very comfortable. Please give my regards to all the chaps and I hope that you are all keeping A1 and are not quite as browned off as I am. Yours sincerely Bob Melbourn.

North Africa.

On 9th May 1943 Sergeant 2655658 Robert William Melbourn was wounded with a gunshot wound to the head whilst serving with the 2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards in North Africa.

On 23rd September 1943 Sergeant R.W. Melbourn 2655658, 2nd Battalion, Coldstream Guards was Gazetted having been Mentioned in Despatches whilst serving in North Africa: “The King has been graciously pleased to approve that the following be mentioned in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North Africa.”

Italy.

On 31st May 1944 Robert’s wife, living at 27 Compton Crescent, Chessington, wrote to the Chief Constable: Dear Sir, I have received my extra allowance from the War Office, which is 5s 6d per week, starting from May 1st. I had an air letter from Bob yesterday dated 21st May and he is very well and asks me to send his regards to everyone. Yours sincerely W. Melbourn.

Killed In Action.

On 10th June 1944 Robert was killed in action again whilst serving with the 2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards in Italy. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission website record shows: “In Memory of Serjeant Robert William Melbourn 2655658, 2nd Bn., Coldstream Guards who died on 10 June 1944 Age 30. Son of George William and Gertie Melbourn; husband of Winifred Melbourn, of Chessington, Surrey. Remembered with Honour Bolsena War Cemetery.”

On the 23rd June 1944 Robert’s widow wrote to the Chief Constable stating: Dear Sir, It is very difficult for me to have to write and tell you of Bob’s death, he was killed by a shell whilst helping to bandage a lad who was wounded on June 10th. His friend wrote to me and yesterday I received the official letter from the War Office. Yours sincerely W. Melbourn.

Robert was one of ten Coldstream Guards who were killed on the 10th June. They were all re-buried In Bolsena War Cemetery on the 10th July 1945. Robert was buried in Plot 4, Row E, Grave 18. Bolsena War Cemetery is situated on the eastern side of Lake Bolsena, between Rome and Siena. The family requested the following inscription to be placed on his headstone: “Greater Love Hath No Man Than This, That A Man Lay Down His Life For His Friends.”

On 3rd September 1943, the Allies invaded the Italian mainland, the invasion coinciding with an armistice made with the Italians who then re-entered the war on the Allied side. Progress through southern Italy was rapid despite stiff resistance, but the advance was checked for some months at the German winter defensive position known as the Gustav Line. The line eventually fell in May 1944 and as the Germans fell back, Rome was taken by the Allies on 3 June. The Germans made their first stand after being driven north of Rome at Bolsena and to the east of Lake Bolsena, there was a tank battle in June 1944 between the 6th South African Armoured Division and the Hermann Goering Panzer Division.

Bolsena War Cemetery is situated on the eastern side of Lake Bolsena just west of the SS2, between Rome (104 kilometres) and Siena (115 kilometres). The site for the cemetery was chosen in November 1944, and graves were brought in from the battlefields between Bolsena and Orvieto. The cemetery is on the actual site of the first camp occupied by General Alexander’s advanced headquarters after the liberation of Rome and it was here that King George VI visited General Alexander at the end of July 1944. The cemetery was designed by Louis de Soissons.

His widow Winifred never remarried and died on 10th January 1991 whilst living at 27, Compton Crescent, Chessington, Surrey.