[1] Richards was 35 years old, and a sergeant in the 1st Battalion, The Lancashire Fusiliers, British Army during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 25 April 1915 west of Cape Helles, Gallipoli, three companies and the Headquarters of the 1st Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers, when landing on W Beach, were met by deadly fire from hidden machine-guns which caused many casualties.

The survivors, however, rushed up and cut the wire entanglements, notwithstanding the terrific fire from the enemy and, after overcoming supreme difficulties, the cliffs were gained and the position maintained.

[3] As a result of a wound sustained in the action, Richards had to have his leg amputated and was discharged from the army as unfit for further service.

[4] His medals were purchased by Lord Ashcroft at auction in 2005 and are held by the Imperial War Museum, London.