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Sidney Godley was the first Private in World War One to receive a prestigious Victoria Cross for his bravery during the first battle of the Great War.

When war was declared, Godley, a Royal Fusilier, was immediately sent to France to help stop the advancing German army.

The Royal Fusiliers were ordered to hold two bridges over the Mons-Conde Canal with two machine guns while the rest of the British Army retreated.

When the three gunners were killed, Godley stepped into their place and began firing.

Within a few minutes of taking over, a shell exploded by the side of Godley and a piece of shrapnel entered his back.

Although in terrible pain he continued firing at the Germans trying to cross the bridge. A bullet hit him in the head and lodged in his skull. Godley's single-handed defence of the bridge for two hours gave the men enough time to retreat.

Sidney was born and lived in East Grinstead where they now intend to lay a commemorative paving stone to recognise his bravery.

Location: Imberhorne Lane, East Grinstead, East Sussex RH19 1RL
Photo shows Imberhorne Lane then and now.
Original photograph courtesy of East Grinstead Museum.
Colour photograph courtesy of East Grinstead Town Council
Presented by Lucy Scott

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