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Auction: 15003 - Orders, Decorations, Campaign Medals and Militaria
Lot: 250

Marsden Colliery Presentation Life Saving Medal, gold (9 carat, Hallmarks for Birmingham 1892), the reverse engraved 'Presented to Thomas Varley by a few Friends & the Officials of Marsden Colliery for his Heroic Act in saving the lives of Thos. Purvis & His Assistant off Souter Point 21st Augt. 1893', with gold ring suspension, very fine

R.N.L.I. Medal voted 14.9.1893: 'The South Shields pilot coble Polly capsized in a squall during a west-south-west gale and a rough choppy sea near Marsden Bay, South Shields, Co. Durham. Mr. Varley put off in a small boat, only 8 feet long and, at great personal risk, saved two men.'

The Marsden Hero
'The brave conduct of Thomas Varley, the Marsden Miner, who, at the imminent risk of his own life, a few weeks ago rescued two Shields pilots whose coble had capsized during a gale, has not gone unrewarded. Varley's gallant act evoked feelings of admiration amongst all who heard of it, and different bodies determined to recognize his bravery. Quite naturally the Tyne pilots wanted to show their appreciation of the noble deed, and they subscribed for a gold chain and medal for the hero. At the same time a number of Shields gentlemen procured him a gold watch and chain, while at Marsden another presentation was organised, and Varley was the recipient of a handsome gold medal, a sum of money, and a gift for his wife; a further testimonial from the same district taking the shape of a pair of binocular glasses. The Marsden Hero, as he has come to be called, has furthermore received the silver medal of the National Lifeboat Institution, a certificate, and £1, and it is stated that he is also likely to have a good substantial boat given to him. Excepting the boat, the various articles have all been presented within the last week, and everyone who knows the risk that Varley underwent to save the two pilots will agree that they are well deserved.' (Newcastle Courant, 30.9.1893 refers).

Mr. Thomas Varley, born Newcastle-upon-Tyne, 1847.

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Estimate
£300 to £400