Description:A fishing party seated by a pool. On the front row, far left is Wilmot Martin of Hixon. Next to him, holding a fly-fishing rod, is Sir Harry Lauder. At the back, far left is Arthur Thomas Radcliffe. On 24 May 1924 the Staffordshire Advertiser reported that Sir Harry caught a trout of nearly 2 lbs at Broadmoor Pool at Mr Radcliffe’s home in Stowe-by-Chartley. Afterwards he and and Wilmot Martin were entertained to lunch by Mr and Mrs Radcliffe, so it is quite likely that this photograph was taken at this event.
Sir Henry 'Harry' Lauder (1870-1950) was a world-famous Scottish comedian and singer. Wilmot Martin was a farmer from Hixon who raised money for charity by impersonating Sir Harry and became known as the 'Staffordshire Harry Lauder'. Wilmot Martin raised around £15,000 over 30 years for good causes. He was supported by his concert party, nicknamed the 'Old Contemptables' and was awarded an MBE in 1949. The two became firm friends and Sir Harry gave Wilmot permission to use his name whilst impersonating him.
The postcard was published by C.W. Tooth of 9, Cannock Road, Hednesford