The funeral of former Steelback William (Jim) James Ellard MBE was held on Monday 10 July 2023 at the Avon Room, Rainsbrook Crematorium, Rugby.

Jim spent most of his National Service with the 1st Bn The Northamptonshire Regiment stationed at Watchet in Somerset, on leaving the Regiment Jim had exemplary service with both the County Retained Fire Service and the County Special Constabulary.

Jim was awarded his MBE in January 2002 for Service to The Community in Northampton.

Jim was a great supporter of The Northampton Regiment and The Northampton Branch of the Regimental Association in particular, he was a regular attender at Branch Meetings, Talavera Dinners and Branch Social Functions. Jim’s funeral was attended by members of the Northampton Branch of The Regimental Association including: Ian Dexter, Branch Chairman, Joe Heffernan, Vice-Chairman and Standard Bearer along with Jackie, Richard York, former Branch Chairman along with Ann, Colin Burridge, former Branch Chairman along with Linda.

Also in attendance was a contingent of Jim’s former comrades and colleagues from the County Retained Fire Service and the County Special Constabulary.