A group of medals, including the highly coveted George Medal is included in the auction of Collectors Items, Clocks and Antiques at Charterhouse, The Longs Street Salerooms, Sherborne on Friday 16th March.

The George Medal was awarded to Flight Lieutenant Wilfred Turner RAF in 1944 for outstanding gallantry during an enemy air attack during the early days of the invasion. During the air attack two Typhoons and a petrol dump were set on fire. In one burning plane were two rockets which were pointing towards other aircraft and a dispersal area. Having put on asbestos gloves, he proceeded to take the rockets off the aeroplane aided by Wing Commander Basil Gibson Carroll thereby nullifying great potential danger. Commented Richard Bromell. Turner had a long career in the RAF, having joined as an apprentice in 1928 and ending up as Acting Squadron Leader. Also with the medals, is his group of miniature medals, numerous photographs of Turner, press cuttings and other ephemera which means the group will sell for £800-1,200.

The George Medal was first instituted in 1940 and awarded for acts of bravery where the services were not so outstanding as to merit the George Cross. Though primarily a civilian award, it was also given to service personnel such as Turner for heroism not in the face of the enemy. Of the approximately 2000 medals awarded, nearly half have been to the services.

Viewing for the sale is on Wednesday 14th 10-4 and Thursday 15th March 10-7 or you can view the catalogue on their website www.charterhouse-auctions.co.uk

Charterhouse is now accepting entries for their forthcoming sales of pictures and books in April and for their spring classic car and motorbike auction in May. Items for sale may be delivered to The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, or call Richard Bromell, Partner there on 01935 812277.

Posted: 03|12|07 at 4:14 pm. Filed under: Press Release.