The Fusilier Museum in Bury has revealed an oil painting of the late Major Edmund Gartside.
Major Gartside was a founding trustee and former finance director who played a key role in the museum’s relocation to Moss Street.
The unveiling took place on Saturday, October 11, with his wife, Valerie and children Michael and Vanessa in attendance.
Colonel Brian Gorski, chairman of The Fusilier Museum, said: “Edmund has been a key supporter and trustee of the Fusilier Museum for many years.
“We owe so much to him for his continued support, guidance and friendship throughout this time and he has undoubtedly played a fundamental role in our success.
“We wanted to do something to honour his contribution and felt that a portrait to go alongside his father was the most fitting.”
Painted by renowned military artist David Rowlands, the portrait now hangs in the museum’s Gallipoli Room, beside a painting of Major Gartside’s father, James Brewer Gartside.
Mr Gartside served with the 6th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers from 1916 to 1940 and was awarded the Military Cross and Distinguished Service Order for his bravery.
Major Edmund Gartside began his military career with the Royal Engineers before being commissioned into the Lancashire Fusiliers in 1954.
He served until 1968, retiring with the rank of Major.
Beyond his military service, he was a director of Shiloh PLC from 1960 and later became chairman and managing director at the age of 33.
He also served as deputy lieutenant for Greater Manchester, high sheriff in 1995, and was granted the freedom of the borough of Rochdale in 2016.
READ MORE:
Mr Gartside died on July 14, 2018.
His son, Michael Gartside, said: “We are delighted that our father’s service both to the Lancashire Fusiliers and to the museum has been recognised by the commissioning of this portrait.
“He was a vital part of the team who brought the museum to Bury, and we are grateful to them for honouring him in this way.”
