South Yorkshire Times May 5 1945
Grateful to the Red Cross
“I cannot find the words to express my thanks to the Red Cross for all they have done the prisoners of war,” was the tribute paid by Sgt Reynold Collingridge son of Mr, and Mrs. R. Collingridge of 57, Balby Street, Denaby Main, who returned home on Saturday evening.
Sgt Collingridge joined up in May, 1939 and was taken on January 1, 1943 outside Tripoli, by the Germans and was handed over to the Italians.
Just before Italy capitulated he was transferred to Germany and was imprisoned in stalag 4B and then stalag 357 being released on April 16 by the British Army.
At the excitement of release they were told to remain in the camp until arrangements could be made and were brought to England by sea from Ostend last Friday.
Sgt Collingridge said that they had made their own enjoyment to keep themselves fit.
Food had been scarce and they had relied upon the Red Cross, who had not failed them.
They had been treated like kings since their release and were grateful for the kindness shown.