A GROUP of First World War medals awarded to Somerset lad - who later became a hotelier - are set to go under the hammer next month.
The medals are being sold by Charterhouse at their collectors' auction on September 9 and 10, and were awarded to Farrier Staff-Sergeant Stanley Layzell and come to the auction directly from a family relation.
Layzell served in the Royal Artillery from the start of the First World War later to North West Persia and Iraq.
In addition, he was awarded a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal for exemplary service.
Having served for King and Country, he settled down in Chard where he ran The Choughs Hotel.
With the medals is a guest book from the hotel dating to 1931, with his business card glued in the front, 'Good Accommodation for Motorists & Cyclists, Garage & Good Stables'.
The last entry in the book dates to 1935.
Also with the lot is a letter from the Royal Army Service Corps dated June 19, 1931.
Addressed to Stan, albeit in poor condition, the type letter notes the gift of a silver cigarette case “…when you handle this case, we hope it will remind you of some happy occasions spent in our company, and, when puffing away at your ‘weed’, bear in mind all of us have expressed a unanimous wish for your good health, happiness and prosperity, in your new sphere… In conclusion, once again let us wish you all the best of good things, not only for yourself, but for Mrs Layzell and the baby….”
The silver presentation cigarette case looks to have been appreciated and well used by Stan as it bears many dents.
“The market for medals continues to be strong with collectors looking to add to their collections,” said auctioneer, Richard Bromell.
“This, combined with fresh to the market medals with a good side story, produces great results.”
The medals, visitor book, letter and silver presentation cigarette case are estimated at £300-£500.
Charterhouse is now accepting entries for the specialist auction of coins, medals and stamps on September 9 and model cars, toys, clocks and collector’s items on September 10, with classic and vintage cars at the Haynes International Motor Museum on Tuesday, October 5, with classic and vintage motorcycles, also at Haynes, on October 14.
Call 01935 812277, email info@charterhouse-auction.com, or visit www.charterhouse-auction.com
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