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Funeral for decorated Major Russell Matthews

February 11, 2010

A former political assistant to Wokingham MPs William van Straubenzee and John Redwood has died following a short illness.

Major Russell Matthews, who was awarded the Military Cross for his efforts in the Second World War, died at Frimley Park Hospital in Camberley on Monday, February 1.

The 87-year-old, who lived in Eversley, became assistant to Mr van Straubenzee following his retirement from the Army in 1974.

He later served Mr Redwood until 1992 following a brief return to the armed forces as a returning officer at Sandhurst, while his time in politics also saw him form the Young Conservative party in the borough.

Mr Matthews was secretary of 27 local Conservative groups across Berkshire .

A military funeral for Major Matthews, who leaves behind two daughters, Celia and Nicky, will take place at Easthampstead Crematorium in Nine Mile Ride on Thursday, February 18, at 1.30pm.

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am i on line?

tom sutcliffe
17/03/2010 at 10:03

wonderful man, and commandering officer I don't read comic books any more, just write them, plus creative art. Thank you again, for all your help in my life! god bless you

ex 1914flight Malaya. Tom Sutcliffe Royal Air Force.

tom sutcliffe
16/03/2010 at 17:29

There are several major mistakes in this article. Major Russell Matthews was a former Political Agent for both Bill van Straubenzee and John Redwood. Also in the fourth para you mention 'a returning officer' this was not correct he returned to RMA Sandhurst as a Retired Officer responsible for the Graphics and AV Department.