Pair: Private J. Marsh, Royal Berkshire Regiment

Egypt and Sudan 1882-89, undated reverse, 2 clasps, Suakin 1885, Tofrek (115 Pte., 1/Rl. Berks. R.); Khedive’s Star, 1884-86, unnamed, edge bruising and pitting, nearly very fine (2) £300-340

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Medals from the Collection of Brigadier Brian Parritt, C.B.E..

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James Marsh was born in Avebury, near Marlborough, Wiltshire. A Labourer by occupation, he attested for the Army on 14 December 1881, aged 19 years, having previously served in the Berkshire Militia. Marsh was posted with the regiment to Egypt, November 1882-May 1883 but saw no operational service, and then served at Gibraltar, May 1883-August 1884. Returning to Egypt during August 1884-March 1886, Marsh saw action at the battle of Tofrek, 22 March 1885. The regiment suffered 1 officer and 24 other ranks killed and 26 other ranks wounded in the battle. Such was the bravery of the Berkshire Regiment in that battle that it was rewarded with the prefix “Royal”. He was discharged at home on 13 December 1893. Sold with copied service papers, roll extract confirming clasps and other research. Note: a ‘Private J. Marsh, Royal Berkshire Regiment’, was mentioned in General Wolseley’s despatch dated 2 November 1882.