A WAR hero who played a part in Rorke’s Drift features in a just- released DVD.
Private William Partridge took part in the famous defence of Rorke’s Drift in 1879,where 150 soldiers defended a supply station against repeated attacks from 4,000 Zulus.
In later years, Private Partridge lived in Lancaster Street, Blaina, and was buried in the local cemetery.
His grave lay unmarked until the 1980s when his great-grandson made a wooden cross to mark the site.
In 2008, Blaina Communities First, together with the Royal British Legion, Blaina Heritage and the Royal Welsh, organised a new permanent headstone, memorial parade and programme of activities attended by more than 600 people to honour the soldier. The DVD, officially released on September 2, is based around these events.
It features a biography of William Partridge and details of the defence of Rorke’s Drift as well as the parade and Services of Remembrance in Saint Peter’s Church and at the graveside.
It also includes interviews with family members, the curator of the Regimental Museum and local groups involved in the day’s events.
DVDs are priced at £5 and are available from Blaina Communities First, 77 High Street, Blaina, or by post for £6.50 with cheque payable to Blaina Ward Partnership Board.
It is available from other outlets, so call 01495 291694 for your nearest stockist.
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