James Gregory-Simpson originated from Eastwood and moved to the area in 1906. He ran the Queen's Head Hotel, Riddings for many years and later the Portland Arms Hotel at Jacksdale.

James tragically died after a short illness in 1926 aged just 44.
His obituary of January 1926 described him as being a well-known figure in the sporting world, of a generous disposition and having a host of friends. Many hundreds of sympathisers joined his funeral cortege at Ironville church. A large contingent of ex-servicemen under the command of Sergeant Fred Daley formed a guard of honour through which the coffin was borne into the church. The funeral was also attended by a large number of members of 'The Bookmaker's Protection Society'. Mourners included his brothers Jack and Ben Gregory-Simpson. He left a wife Kate and daughters and a son in law, Arthur Giles.

James Gregory-Simpson is shown in Kelly's Directory for 1916 and 1922 as being the Landlord of the Portland Arms Hotel, which had been in the hands of the Clark family for many years previously.

Last updated 18/09/04.