SBS rally to support former marine Frank

Frank today

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THE Special Boat Service has gone into action after one of its own was mugged for his precious diving watch.

Frank Marchington (83), a member of the elite squad in the 1950s and 1960s, was robbed near his home in Failsworth. The pensioner was attacked from behind by a thug who punched him and stole his wallet and Omega watch, worth £4,000.

After reading about the attack, the SBS Association has offered a unique replacement. A spokesman said: “We have only 1,500 members, but whether serving or retired, 23 or 83, we look after our own.

“We were shocked to hear what had happened to Frank. We have commissioned Elliot and Brown, British watchmakers, to make a replacement watch, embossed with ‘Frank M’ and his service number.

“We will have it ready in about two weeks and send two of our representatives to present it to him.”

“Frank’s watch will be made by the company that produces watches for the SBS. It will be worth about £500, but because of its link to the SBS its value will soar, and for his family it will be an heirloom that will be priceless.”

Frank was in Lord Lane near his home last Monday when he was attacked at about 9pm.

The family is now offering a cash reward for the return of the original watch.

Frank’s grand-daughter April said: “From all of our family, we would like to say thank you for everyone’s amazing support, kindness, concern, love and generosity. This is a very nice gesture, but we still need to get the original back. Let’s hope whoever took it has the integrity to return it in some way, but I’m not holding my breath.

“Any donations made will go towards the cash reward and also The Royal British legion charity.”

Visit the page at www.gofundme.com/6rxn2y3g to donate.

GMP are investigating the robbery