Arthur Frederick Edwards, GC (1895-1984) was awarded the George Cross in 1971 having received the Edward Medal in 1919 (now in the Ipswich Museum). The award was for bravely assisting, with three other soldiers, in the rescue of wounded at Faversham Powder Mills store, Kent, when serving as a Bombardier in the Royal Artillery in April 1916. 

Arthur was educated at Ipswich Grammar School and Bishop’s Stortford School. He became a director of the department store, J&J Edwards, which was based at 33-35 Tavern Street from 1900-68. The retailer was founded by Arthur Edwards’ father, James F. Edwards, and his uncle. 

The plaque was proposed by James Goodwin, great nephew to Arthur Edwards, who lives in Ipswich; it was officially unveiled on May 8 2019.

Tony Robson