"ONE of our best known and highly respected townsmen, Mr F G Russell, jeweller, Holyrood Terrace, celebrated his 70th birthday on Wednesday, and was the recipient of congratulations from his many friends," reported the Gazette 100 years ago.

"Mr Russell came to Malvern in 1864, when he was 21 years of age, and he had therefore been connected with the trade of the town for of 49 years.

"He came from an establishment in New Bond Street, London, to take up the management of the local branch of Messrs Manning and Manning of Worcester. In 1866 Mr Russell purchased the business, and has conducted it ever since with great success.

"During his long residence, he has played many parts and has always been associated with every matter concerning the welfare of the town, in which he takes a great pride.

"Malvern, half a century ago, was a different place to what it is today, There were no Assembly Rooms then, nor had the residents the opportunity of witnessing the high class theatrical and musical performances which they have today.

"Mr Russell was the pioneer of these entertainments of the past known as Penny Readings, and they were immensely popular in the town and district for years. He was also associated with the Dramatic Club at the Drill Hall, and filled almost every role from stage manager down to prompter, his appearances on the stage as an actor being always crowned with success.

"As time went on, Mr Russell undertook public work, and was elected a member of the public board, and he subsequently sat for a time on the District Council which succeeded it. Mr Russell has also been an overseer of the Parish of Great Malvern and he was a churchwarden of the Priory. He is a prominent freemason.

"His years sit lightly on him, and he is still as active as many men half his age."