Hero’s Reward

August 1935

South Yorkshire Times August 3, 1935

Hero’s Reward

The bravery of a young Denaby Main miner, who unsuccessfully attempted to rescue two Doncaster men when the boat they were in capsized on the canal at Sprotborough, was commended at public meeting at Denaby and Tuesday, when a presentation was made.

The Hero was William Langford, 73, Maltby Street, Denaby Main, who made the gallant effort on Easter Monday. Langford, who has been unable to wear through illness, for 16 months, was not in good health at the time, and the water was extremely cold, making his action all the more meritorious.

The presentation, a cheque for £14, was made by Mr. R. H. Shepard (chairman of Conisbrough Urban Council), and those on the platform in support where Messrs. A. Robinson, J. T. E. Collins, R. J. Troughton, J. C. Mcfarlane , G. Oldfield, B. Roberts, J. Humphreys, J. D. Webster, and Mr. Spencer Baker Clerk to the Urban Council.

Mr Fred Radcliffe, Bradford, a prominent Y. M. A. Worker, deputised for Mr. J. A. Hall, J. P. Financial secretary of the Y. M. A., who was unable to attend.

Mr. B. Roberts wished Mr Langford the best of health and strength and happiness, and Mr R. J. Troughton also commended Mr. Lang said after receiving the gift, Mr. Langford said he was only performing his duty and he only wished he could have done a bit more. Mr. Spencer Baker said that similar courage in the Great War would have merited the Victoria Cross.

Mr. Langford is also to receive £10 and a certificate from the Carnegie Trust and £1 and a certificate from the Royal Humane Society.