"We still care for our fallen comrades"
Members of the Queen's Own Hussars have issued a call to arms to restore the grave of a fallen comrade who 200 years ago fought at the battle of Waterloo.
Members of the regiment are set to restore the grave of Trooper James Simmons, a veteran of the battle of Waterloo, who is buried at All Saints cemetery in Carshalton.
Little is known about Trooper Simmons other than he fought with the 7th Hussars at the battle of Waterloo aged in his early 20s, and died at his home, Waterloo Villa, Carshalton Grove aged 90.
Retired Corporal Neil Dennehy, 46, from Hackbridge, saw a Sutton Guardian article about the soldier published for the 200th anniversary of the pivotal conflict, and has set about organising restoration of his grave.
The grave of James Simmons, in All Saints Cemetery, Carshalton
He said: "When I told both serving and retired members of our regiment they all said that it had to be sorted out.
"We can't leave him in an unattended grave and as a group we want to see the graves of our former comrades looked after.
"I'd like to say that all members of the Hussars, past and present, are all part of one big family, so we want to do right by Trooper Simmons.
"There's no way we'll leave it in its current state."
The regiment is planning a new headstone and intend to hold a rededication ceremony.
Mr Dennehy said: "We have the funds to cover the restoration and we want to make a big event of it.
He is researching the history of Trooper Simmons and awaiting for a date to begin restoring his grave.
Do you know more? Contact Anders Anglesey on 020 8722 6358 or anders.anglesey@london.newsquest.co.uk.
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