Yesterday morning I had the privilege to join over 100 others at St Peter's Church in Drayton for a very special service. We were gathered to commemorate the remarkable achievements of one particular 'son of Drayton'. Edward Mott was born in the village in 1893 and after joining the army in 1910 he served in the First World War. Whilst still a corporal he earned the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) at Gallipoli. He was shot whilst carrying his injured commanding officer and leading his company against enemy fire. He was later sent back to Gallipoli and was shot again, this time in the face!
For most people that would have been more than enough, but Edward was then sent to the Somme. It was whilst serving on the Western Front that he earned the Victoria Cross. The citation on his award read:
"Although severely wounded in the eye, Sergeant Mott made a rush for the gun and after a fierce struggle, seized the gunner and took him prisoner, capturing the gun. It was due to the dash and initiative of this NCO that the left flank attack succeeded.”
He survived the war and returned to live locally in the Vale. During the Second World War he served as a guard at RAF Milton Hill. Edward Mott's story is truly inspiring and the few paragraphs here do not do it justice. As the Bishop of Dorchester, who presided at the service, reminded the congregation - Seargant Mott's accomplishments and the modesty with which he bore his bravery are testimony to the difference individuals can make. We should all strive to show the kind of bravery displayed by Edward, whatever our background or role in life.