Saving Private Rideout

Only a few hours after landing at Suvla Bay on 15th August 1915, 1/4 Northants were thrust into action at Kidney Hill. On the morning of 16th August they were holding a position on rough ground below Kidney Hill. Stretcher bearers were called up to take away a wounded man. One of the bearers was underage John Rideout. Rideout then got hit and went down. Malcolm Hancock picked him up and using a fireman’s lift took him back to safety in clear view of the Turkish riflemen, an act for which he was awarded the Military Cross.

Full story HERE and HERE.

111 years ago today, Malcolm Hancock landed at Suvla Bay, Gallipoli, a raw young 2nd Lieutenant part of 1/4 Northants. The Northants faced a situation of confusion and disorganisation but they were soon to find themselves thrown in at the deep end.

More details of the landing HERE.

Many thanks to the Kidlington and District Historical Society for hosting my talk on Malcolm yesterday evening. I enjoyed delivering it, the audience was receptive and all the tech’ worked!

“While Memory Lasts – Grandfather’s Wars”

Tuesday 25th February 2025, 7.30pm

Kidlington Baptist Church, OX5 2DS

£5 on the door!

For the Kidlington & District Historical Society

Thanks to Cousin Charlie’s useful younger brother the interview with Wogan is back!

Diary extracts from Malcolm Hancock’s time as Welfare Officer in Berlin April to August 1945.

Thanks to Cousin Charlie’s useful younger brother the interview with Wogan is back!