South Yorkshire Times – Saturday 24 October 1942

Proud Record

Mr. and Mrs. C. Allen, 246, Queen Street. Swinton have reason to feel proud of the exploits of their two sons serving with the Forces.

Harry (26), the elder son, has been serving in the army since December, 1940 and is taking part in the heroic defence of Malta. He went out in September 1941 and during the journey his ship was torpedoed and he lost all his personal belongings.

Prior to joining the Army Harry was in business on his own account as hairdresser at Roman Terrace.

The other son. Albert (25), joined the R.A.F. In June, 1940, and since that time he has gone on from success to success and was recently promoted to the rank of Flight Sergeant.

Before joining the R.A.F. Albert worked in the Letterpress Machine Department of the “South Yorkshire Time ” Printing Co., Ltd. and his exploits as an athlete were well known in the district. It was, however, in cycling circles that Albert was best known, having won many 25-mile, 50-mile and 100-mile road racing events. He is the proud possessor of many trophies. His enthusiasm for sport has proved useful since joining up, and has helped considerably is furthering is promotion and at one time, before reaching his present rank he was a gym instructor.

In the last war the boy’s father, Mr. C. Allen, was awarded the Military Medal for bravery in action.