In 1945 Kenneth Lloyd James Lacey, then serving in His Majesty's Forces, had a home address at 381, Main Street, Thurmaston.

Kenneth Lloyd James Lacey died in 1989, aged 73 years old.

 

 

Harold Lane was born in about 1919, the son of Arthur Herbert Lane, a shoe clicker. During the war Harold Lane served as Gunner 943207 with the Royal Artillery. He was married to Enid Lilian Baldwin, the daughter of Frederick William Baldwin. Harold Lane was still serving with His Majesty's Forces in 1945, at which date his home address was 19, Forest Avenue, Thurmaston.

 

 

425, Syston Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

Benjamin Lay was born in Leicester on the 5th February 1904. In 1911 the Lay family lived at 35, Birstall Street, Leicester. As a young boy Benjamin Lay saw his father, William,who was a furniture vanman, go off to serve in the army during the Great War. William Lay served with the 53rd Remount Squadron of the Army Service Corps (ASC) from 1915-1919, leaving his wife, Ellen, to look after Benjamin and his two siblings.

During the 1939-45 war Benjamin Lay, of 3, Churchill Road, Thurmaston, served in the Army. Like his father he also served with the ASC, which had by then become the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC). The cap badge of the Corps can be seen in the photograph.

Benjamin Lay died in 1969.

 

 

139, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

 

 

Aircraftsman 2nd Class, 1226538, David Robert Lewis, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve died on the 25th May 1941, age 20 years. He was the son of David and Florence Gertrude Lewis of 125, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

He is buried in Thurmaston Cemetery - Section D, Grave 1349 - and is also commemorated on the War Memorial at Thurmaston..

 

 

500, Melton Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

44, Colby Drive, Thurmaston.

 

 

78, Checkland Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

In 1945 Sidney Frederick Lewitt, then serving with His Majesty's Forces, had a home address at 78, Checkland Road, Thurmaston.

Sidney Frederick Lewitt was born in Leicestershire during 1921..

 

 

Miss. G. M. License was a member of the Thurmaston Branch of the Women's Voluntary Service (W.V.S.). In 1945 she passed a test that permitted her to do overseas service with the Navy, Army, Air Force Institutes (N.A.A.F.I.) in Western Europe. She left Leicester in April 1945 for her final overseas training.

 

 

Albert Edward Lightfoot was born in Leicester on the 18th June 1910. He was the son of Cheshire born Albert Edward Lightfoot, a fishdealer, and his wife Lizzie, nee Adkins. When Albert was born the Lightfoot family lived at 120, Humberstone Road, Leicester.

Albert Edward Lightfoot joined the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC) in 1939 as a private soldier. His unit served with the 8th Army in North Africa, during which time he rose to the rank of Captain. Thereafter, he spent two years in India on attachment to the Indian Army. He was engaged in work to counter the threat of an invasion of India by the Imperial Japanese Army. The photograph of Albert Edward Lightfoot, at left, was taken at El Alamein, North Africa, during, it is believed, 1941.

During the 1939-1945 war Albert Edward Lightfoot only had one week's leave in the UK. After 1947, following his return to civilian life, he lived at 328, Main Street, Thurmaston, his grocery and newsagent's shop. A business he had run jointly with his wife, Frances, from 1935, and one which his wife had run alone during the war. The shop closed in 1971.

Albert Edward Lightfoot passed away on the 20th April 1980, his wife survived him by fifteen years. She died on the 9th December 1995, aged 84 years.

The information provided here was made available by his son Richard Lightfoot, the eldest of Albert Edward Lightfoot's two sons.

To see the full image of this man click on the link below

Albert Edward Lightfoot

 

Driver, T/216685, Alfred Charles Linsell, served with the Royal Army Service Corps. In 1942 he was serving attached to the 9 Lt. Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps. He was killed in action with this unit in North Africa on the 14th November 1942. He was 31 years' of age.

He born in Romford, Essex, in 1911, the son of Jack and May Linsell. He married his wife Emma, nee Brocklehurst in Cheshire in 1933. Mrs. Emma Linsell lived in Thurmaston.

His name is engraved on the base of a white stone cross that is sited at Childer Thornton, Cheshire. The Childer Thornton War Memorial commemorates the war dead of both World Wars who were from Hooton, Childer Thornton and Little Sutton. Alfred Charles Linsell is also commemorated on the Alamein War Memorial, Egypt, Column 76.

 

 

Ronald J. Mammatt was born in 1923 in the Camberwell district of London. He was the son of James Mammatt and his wife Amy, nee Denton.

In 1945 he was serving with His Majesty's Forces. His home address was that of his parents at 182, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

 

 

7th House, Manor Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

Anthony McGowan was born in Leicestershire in 1917.

Anthony Tony McGowan served in His Majesty's Forces during the war.

His elder brothers John McGowan (q.v.), Joseph McGowan (q.v.), and Edward William McGowan (q.v.) all served in the forces during the 1939-1945 war.

 

 

Edward William McGowan was born in Leicestershire in 1915.

Edward William Ted McGowan lived at 18, Harrison Street, Thurmaston. In 1945 he was serving in the military.

His elder brothers John McGowan (q.v.) and Joseph McGowan (q.v.), and his younger brother Anthony McGowan (q.v.) all served in the forces during the 1939-1945 war.

 

 

John McGowan was born on the 16th June 1911. He served in the Royal Artillery during the war.

John McGowan passed away in 1997.

His younger brothers Joseph McGowan (q.v.), Edward William McGowan (q.v.), and Anthony McGowan (q.v.) all served in the forces during the 1939-1945 war.

 

 

Joseph McGowan was born on the 17th July 1912.

Joseph Joe McGowan served in the army during the war.

His elder brother John McGowan (q.v.), and his younger brothers Edward William McGowan (q.v.) and Anthony McGowan (q.v.) all served in the forces during the 1939-1945 war.

He died in Leicestershire during 2005.

 

 

John Arthur Measures, of 26, Oakland Avenue, Thurmaston, served in the forces during the war. He was discharged back to civilian life on the 21st March 1945.

 

Frederick C. Mee, a shoe finisher, and his wife, lived at 49, Hillcroft Close, Thurmaston.

On the 17th July 1941 thirty year old Mr. Mee was enlisted into the army for the duration of the war. On the 1st January 1944 he was serving as Gunner, 11058451, Frederick C. Mee, with the 23rd Battery, 8th (Belfast) Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery. For more information on the 1944 composition of this unit visit the following website 23rd 8th Belfast Click on the link.

In 1946 Frederick C. Mee was registered to vote at 49, Hillcroft Close, Thurmaston.

 

 

Albert Samuel Mitchell was born in Thurmaston in 1915. He was the son of Wilfred Arthur Mitchell and his wife Belina, nee Frisby. Wilfred Arthur Mitchell supported his wife and children by working as a municipal gas labourer. During the Great War Wilfred Arthur Mitchell served in the army.

In 1945 Albert Samuel Mitchell was serving with His Majesty's Forces. His home address in 1945 was at 35, Garden Street, Thurmaston.

Albert Samuel Mitchell's brothers, Leslie Arthur Mitchell and Ronald Mitchell, served during the 1939-1945 war.

Albert Samuel Mitchell died in Leicestershire during 1968.

 

 

Leslie Arthur Mitchell was born in Thurmaston on the 1st September 1910. He was the son of Wilfred Arthur Mitchell and his wife Belina, nee Frisby. Wilfred Arthur Mitchell supported his wife and children by working as a municipal gas labourer. During the Great War Wilfred Arthur Mitchell served in the army.

In 1945 Leslie Arthur Mitchell was serving with His Majesty's Forces. His home address in 1945 was at 223, Main Street, Thurmaston.

Leslie Arthur Mitchell's brothers, Albert Samuel Mitchell and Ronald Mitchell, served during the 1939-1945 war.

Leslie Arthur Mitchell died in Leicestershire during 1976.

 

 

Ronald Mitchell was born in Thurmaston in 1923. He was the son of Wilfred Arthur Mitchell and his wife Belina, nee Frisby. Wilfred Arthur Mitchell supported his wife and children by working as a municipal gas labourer. During the Great War Wilfred Arthur Mitchell served in the army.

In 1943 Ronald Mitchell was serving with His Majesty's Forces. His home address in 1943 was at 223, Main Street, Thurmaston.

Ronald Mitchell's brothers, Leslie Arthur Mitchell and Albert Samuel Mitchell, served during the 1939-1945 war.

 

 

In 1945 Frederick Walter Mobbs, who was then serving in His Majesty's Forces, was resident at 9, Roundway Road, Thurmaston. The house was also home to his wife Ellen E. Mobbs, nee Kirton, and their young boys.

 

 

William Walter Lancelot Mobbs was born in Leicester on the 23rd November 1906. He was the son of Northamptonshire born William Mobbs, a foundry works blacksmith, and his wife Emma Maria, nee Tomblin. In 1911 the Mobbs family lived at 109, Coral Street, Leicester.

William Walter Lancelot Mobbs was a serving member of the armed forces in late 1945, and remained so until at least 1947. He lived at 50, Hillcroft Close, Thurmaston.

William Walter Lancelot Mobbs died during 1973

 

 

Eric Montgomery was born in Leicestershire on the 5th February 1921.

Eric Montgomery joined the Leicestershire Yeomanry in 1939, at the age of 18. He joined with his friend Percy Potter (q.v.), and signed up at Melton Mowbray. When Eric joined the Yeomanry it was a cavalry unit, part of the 5th Cavalry Brigade, which was mobilised on 1st September 1939, two days before the war was declared. On the 22nd September 1939 the regiment moved to Rufford Abbey, and its role was changed to that of Divisional Cavalry of the 1st Cavalry Division. In November the regiment was converted into a Royal Artillery unit. Eric Montgomery joined 153 (Leicestershire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, his friend Percy Potter joined 154 (Leicestershire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. In April 1940 the two regiments parted, each, eventually, to move to different theatres of war. For both Eric and Percy much training was to follow.

Eric Montgomery, who was trained as an artificer, transferred to a Scottish Artillery unit. During his army service Eric had the pleasant experience of meeting the film actor Stewart Granger, who at the time was a serving officer in the British Army. Eric met the officer at a railway station and following some conversation was taken into a first class compartment on the train and treated to food and drink.

Eric Montgomery served and fought through France and into Germany. In 1945 his family home was at 24, Unicorn Street, Thurmaston.

He died in Leicestershire during 1996.

 

 

26, Berkeley Street, Thurmaston.

 

 

In 1945 Frederick William Moore, who was then serving in His Majesty's Forces, was resident at 24, Sandiacre Drive, Thurmaston. The house was also home to his wife Joan M. Moore, nee Irons, and their young children.

 

 

5, Hardy's Avenue, Thurmaston.

 

In the New Years Honour's List of 1944 the King approved the award of the British Empire Medal (BEM Civilian) to Mr. Albert Morris, gang leader and welder, of Taylorcraft Aeroplanes (England) Limited, Thurmaston. The Leicester Advertiser announced the award, quoting one of Taylorcraft's directors, who said that Mr. Morris was "an outstanding example of a very good workman, and an inspiration to the rest". The award was confirmed in the Supplement to the London Gazette of the 4th January 1944.

It has not yet been determined whether Mr. Morris was a resident of Thurmaston.

 

 

5, Methuen Avenue, Thurmaston.

 

 

334, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

 

 

Sandown, Syston Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

In late 1945 Francis Roland Murray, of The Lodge, Roundhill, Syston Road, Thurmaston, was serving in the armed forces. He was still serving in 1947.

 

 

Joseph Nadin was serving with His Majesty's Forces in 1940. He and his wife, Doris, lived at 17, Brook Street, Thurmaston.

 

 

In 1945 Noel George Needham, then serving with His Majesty's Forces, had a home address at 23, Sandiacre Drive, Thurmaston.

Noel George Needham was born in Leicester on the 28th April 1916. He was the husband of Mrs. Annie M. Needham, nee Russell. He died in Leicestershire during 1982.

 

 

Douglas John Newton, age 22, of 11, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston, was serving as an Able Seaman in the Royal Navy during 1941.

 

Arthur Henry Noble of 332, Main Street, Thurmaston, was a serving member of His Majesty's Forces in late 1945, and remained so until at least 1947.

 

 

Harvey Noble was the son of Percy Noble (q.v.) and brother to Joe and William Noble (q.v.). Harvey was born on the 14th April 1925. Harvey Noble served in the Royal Navy during the 1939-45 War. During his service it is understood that he served aboard the antiaircraft artillery ship H.M.S. Palomares, which took part in the ill-fated North Russia convoy PQ17. It is believed that Harvey Noble was trained and worked as a diver.

To see a full length photograph of Harvey Noble click on the following link

Harvey Noble

 

 

Joan Noble was the wife of Joe Noble (q.v.) of Thurmaston. During the war Joan served as a Petty Officer in the Royal Navy, during which time she was stationed in Londonderry, Ireland.

To see a wedding photograph of Joan Noble and her husband Joe click on the following link.

Joan and Joe Noble

 

 

Jummy Noble had a brother called Percy Noble. The two brothers were nephews of Percy Noble (q.v.) and cousins to Harvey, Joe and William Noble (q.v.).

 

William Ford Norman was born in Leicestershire during 1919. He was the son of Mr. Alfred Norman and his wife Mrs. Matilda Norman, nee Ford. William Ford Norman married Margaret E. Humberstone in Leicestershire towards the end of 1940.

During the war William Ford Norman served as Gunner, 956440, W. F. Norman, 420th Battery, 148th (The Bedfordshire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. He died on the 19th September 1944.

He is commemorated on column 38 of the the Singapore Memorial, Singapore.

 

John Alfred Norris was serving with the Royal Air Force in 1941. He and his wife, Irene Ada, lived at Sunnydene, Churchill Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

11, Melton Avenue, Thurmaston.

 

 

Trooper, 4859762, John Arnold North, 49th (West Riding) Regiment, Reconnaissance Corps, Royal Armoured Corps, died on the 25/06/1944. He was 26 years old. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. G. A. North of Anstey, Leicestershire. His wife, Irene North, and his baby son, Geoffrey North, lived at 27, Brook Street, Thurmaston. Trooper North joined the army at the beginning of the war and had served with the Leicestershire Regiment in Norway. Prior to the war he was employed by Messrs. Bosworth and Wright of Anstey, Leicestershire. He is commemorated at the Bayeux War Cemetery, France.

He is commemorated on the War Memorial at Thurmaston.

 

 

13, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

 

 

Kenneth Albert Page of 7, Forest Avenue, Thurmaston, was a serving member of His Majesty's Forces in late 1945, until at least 1947.

 

 

Twenty five year old George Palmer, of 240, Main Street, Thurmaston, was serving with the Royal Navy in 1945.

 

 

Ronald Frederick Palmer of 41, Oakland Avenue, Thurmaston, was a serving member of the armed forces in late 1945, and remained so until at least 1947.

 

 

6, Barkby Thorpe Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

In 1940, when he was called to the colours, Walter Parker was a married man with a small child. During the war he served as Gunner, 1140312, Walter Parker, Royal Artillery. He was stationed in the town of Rhyl, North Wales. He did not undertake any overseas service. He left the army in 1946.

He and his wife, Gladys, nee Loveridge, lived at 14, Brook Street, Thurmaston. The couple had three children, two sons and a daughter. To see a picture of Walter Parker and his wife Gladys click on the following link

Walter and Gladys Parker

 

 

Stanley Partridge, of 30, Unicorn Street, Thurmaston, son of Albert Partridge, was serving with the Royal Navy in 1945.

 

Alan Denzil Payne was born in Lancashire in 1924. His father was Francis George Payne and his mother was Elsie E. Payne nee Royle.

In 1945 Francis George and Elsie Payne lived at 2, Roundway Road, Thurmaston. The house was also home to their son Vernon Victor Payne (1916-1992) and their daughter Barbara Pearl Payne.

In 1945 the couple's youngest son, Alan Denzil Payne, was a serving member of His Majesty's Forces.

 

272, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

 

 

Albert George Pedge was born in 1918. His father, Charles Edward Pedge, an ironmoulder, had been a serving soldier at the end of the Great War. Albert George Pedge served as an Able Seaman in the Royal Navy from at least early 1941 until 1945. He and his wife, Harriet May, lived in Unicorn Street, Thurmaston.

 

 

Private, 4859907, Sydney Pegg, 1st Battalion Leicestershire Regiment, was captured during the Japanese Invasion of Malaya. He was held as a prisoner of war at Changi Gaol and Ban Pong, Thailand. He had served in the army from the outbreak of the war.

Syd Pegg's parents kept the Generous Briton public house, Thurmaston. Prior to the war Syd Pegg had worked for Sir Lindsay Parkinson, contractors, Liverpool and London.

 

 

Herbert and Joan Pells lived in Havelock Cottages, Thurmaston. In 1942 Herbert Pells was serving as a Corporal with the Royal Air Force.

 

 

129, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

 

 

14, Garden Street, Thurmaston.

 

 

In 1939 Wilfred Phillips of 17, Winster Drive Thurmaston was a serving member of the armed forces. He was then serving as Private, 4858521, W. Phillips, 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment.

 

Leading Aircraftsman L. Platt of Thurmaston was serving with the Royal Air Force in Canada during 1943, under training as a pilot. He had formerly been a sergeant with No. 1462 (North Leicester) Squadron, Air Training Corps.

 

 

Charles Ramsey Mackintosh Pointon was born in Leicester on the 6th April 1908. Prior to the 1939-1945 war he married Winifred Akester and the couple had two children.

During the 1939-1945 war he served in His Majesty's Forces. In 1945 his home address was at 1A, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

He died in the County of Kent during 1985.

 

 

In about 1900 Frank Porch, a basket maker, and his wife, Ada, nee Butcher, arrived in Thurmaston with their four sons, Frank, Henry, William, and George. The Porch family moved to a house in Berkley street, Thurmaston, from Twerton, Somerset, later they moved to Reading Street. Soon after arrving in Thurmaston Mrs. Porch gave birth to a daughter, Lily. The couple would have seven more children in the parish - Walter, Emma, Alfred, Fred, Albert, Constance, and Reggie.

Albert Porch, who was born in Thurmaston on the 29th January 1909, served in His Majesty's Forces during the war. In 1945 his home address was at 177, Main Street, Thurmaston.

Albert Porch's elder brothers, Henry Porch and George Porch, served during the Great War, and Fred Porch (q.v.) served during the 1939-1945 war.

Albert Porch died in 1979.

 

 

In about 1900 Frank Porch, a basket maker, and his wife, Ada, nee Butcher, arrived in Thurmaston with their four sons, Frank, Henry, William, and George. The Porch family moved to a house in Berkley street, Thurmaston, from Twerton, Somerset, later they moved to Reading Street. Soon after arrving in Thurmaston Mrs. Porch gave birth to a daughter, Lily. The couple would have seven more children in the parish - Walter, Emma, Alfred, Fred, Albert, Constance, and Reggie.

Fred Porch, who was born in Thurmaston on the 22nd December 1906, served in His Majesty's Forces during the war. In 1945 his home address was at 24, Unicorn Street, Thurmaston. He was discharged back to civilian life sometime after January 1945.

Fred Porch's elder brothers, Henry Porch and George Porch, served during the Great War, and his younger brother Albert Porch (q.v.) served during the 1939-1945 war.

Fred Porch died in 1993.

 

 

Leonard Alan Porter was born in 1920.

He was the son of Mark Porter (q.v.), who served in the army during the Great War, and his wife Ada, nee Hewick.

He is believed to have served as 1247653, L. A. Porter, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (R.A.F.V.R.).

His younger brother Henry Raymond Porter (q.v.) also served in the R.A.F.

 

 

Henry Raymond Bim Porter was born on the 10th November 1923.

He was the son of Mark Porter (q.v.), who served in the army during the Great War, and his wife Ada, nee Hewick.

He is believed to have served as Sergeant, Air Gunner, 1584810, H. R. Porter, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (R.A.F.V.R.).

He flew in Avro Lancaster aircraft.

His elder brother Leonard Alan Porter (q.v.) also served in the R.A.F.

 

 

Dennis Percy Potter, known to all as Percy, joined the Leicestershire Yeomanry in 1939, at the age of 18. He joined with his friend Eric Montgomery (q.v.), and signed up at Melton Mowbray. When Percy joined the Yeomanry it was a cavalry unit, part of the 5th Cavalry Brigade, which was mobilised on 1st September 1939, two days before the war was declared. On the 22nd September 1939 the regiment moved to Rufford Abbey, and its role was changed to that of Divisional Cavalry of the 1st Cavalry Division. In November the regiment was converted into a Royal Artillery unit. Percy Potter joined 154 (Leicestershire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, his friend Eric Montgomery joined 153 (Leicestershire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. In April 1940 the two regiments parted, each, eventually, to move to different theatres of war. For both Percy and Eric much training was to follow.

In July 1942 154 (Leicestershire Yeomanry) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, was embarked on H.M.T. Circassia. On the 30th August 1942 troops were disembarked at Durban, South Africa. On the 19th September 1942 the regiment was embarked on H.M.T. Pulaski, eventually disembarking at Port Tewfik on the 10th October 1942, when it became part of the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force (M.E.F.). The regiment was later part of the Eighth Army and took part in the Battle of El Alamein.

In 1942 Gunner Dennis Percy Potter, of 58, Winster Drive, Thurmaston, his parent's house, was wounded in Egypt whilst serving with the Leicestershire Yeomanry. He lost an eye due to shrapnel.

 

 

139, Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston.

 

 

In 1945 Reginald Alexander George Pratt, then serving in His Majesty's Forces, had a home address at 12, Harrison Street, Thurmaston.

Reginald Alexander George Pratt was born in Leicestershire on the 12th January 1920. He died during 1995.

 

 

In 1943 Private Jim Pratt, aged 22 years, was reported missing in North Africa. He became a prisoner of war at the hands of Italian forces. His mother lived at 12, Harrison Street, Thurmaston.

It is believed that this man served as Private, 5512176, S. J. Pratt, Hampshire Regiment. Sometime after being held in an Italian POW camp, perhaps camp PG53 at Sforzacosta, Liguria; or camp PG82, Laterina, near Arezzo; Private Pratt was removed to Germany

In Germany he was held as prisoner 226952 in Stalag IV-G. The administrative headquarters of Stalag IV-G were in Oschatz, a town between Leipzig and Dresden, in Saxony.

The camp was liberated in 1945.

 

 

12, Churchill Road Extension, Thurmaston.

 

 

53, Oakland Avenue, Thurmaston.

 

 

Ronald Preston was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Preston of 21, Forest Avenue, Thurmaston. In 1943 he was serving as a flight mechanic with the Royal Air Force.

 

 

Edwin Price was working as a munitions worker in 1943. He and his wife, Megan, lived at 75, Checkland Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

During 1940 twenty four year old John Ernest Price of 28, Church Hill, Thurmaston, was serving as a soldier.

 

 

Samuel Cowie Pringle of 39, Hillcroft Close, Thurmaston, was serving with His Majesty's forces in late 1945, and remained with them until at least 1947.

Samuel Cowie Pringle was born on the 15th May 1907. He was the husband of Mrs. Edith E Pringle, nee Cropper. He died in Leicestershire during 1985.

 

 

199, Main Street, Thurmaston.

 

 

In 1945 Frederick Purvis, who was then serving in His Majesty's Forces, was resident at 6, Hill Rise, Thurmaston. The house was also home to his wife Clare U. Purvis, nee Simpson, Joseph Simpson, Emily M. Simpson, and Doris E. Coles.

 

 

13, Hardy's Avenue, Thurmaston.

 

 

110, Main Street, Thurmaston.

 

 

38, Churchill Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

24, Reading Street, Thurmaston.

 

 

Lance Corporal, 5887942, Richard Grocutt Reeve, 6th Battalion, Royal Norfolk Regiment died on the 28th January 1942, age 24 years. He was the son of Harry and Mary Reeve; and husband of Diana Mary Reeve, of Thurmaston, Leicestershire.

He is commemorated on the Singapore Memorial, Singapore - Panel 48 - and is also commemorated on the War Memorial at Thurmaston.

 

 

34, Highway Road, Thurmaston.

 

 

7, Westdown Drive, Thurmaston.

 

 

Sydney Eric Riddington was born on the 2nd April 1917. He was baptised at parish Thurmaston parish church on the 27th May 1917. Sergeant, 751028, Observer, Sydney Eric Riddington, 53 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve died on the 4th August 1940, age 23 years. He was the son of Albert Edward and Ellen Mary Riddington, of Thurmaston.

He is buried in Thurmaston Cemetery - Section D, Grave 1368- and is also commemorated on the War Memorial at Thurmaston.

For more details about Sydney Eric Riddington click on the link Sergeant Riddington

 

Benjamin Bertie Ridgway was born at Thurmaston on the 3rd August 1909. He was the son of Ben Ridgway and his wife Edith Alice, nee Goodman. In 1916 his elder brother Charles Henry Ridgway was killed in action whilst serving with the Leicestershire Regiment.

Bert Ridgway, as he was known, joined the army prior to the 1939-1945 war, and served with the Royal Artillery. He served in India, but was back in England before 1940. To see a picture of Bert Ridgway in India click on the link. Bert Ridgway went to France as part of the British Expeditionary Force (B.E.F.) and was amongst the thousands of soldiers that were lucky enough to be evacuated from Dunkirk in May-June, 1940.

His elder brother, George William Ridgway (q.v.), and his younger brother, Thomas Harry Ridgway (q.v.), served in the army during the 1939-1945 War, whilst his elder sister, Evelyn M. Rowley (q.v.), served with the Red Cross.

Bert Ridgway died in Leicestershire during 1988.

 

 

George William Ridgway was born at Thurmaston during 1901. He was the son of Ben Ridgway and his wife Edith Alice, nee Goodman. In 1916 his elder brother Charles Henry Ridgway was killed in action whilst serving with the Leicestershire Regiment.

Bill Ridgway, as he was known, served in the army.

His younger brothers, Benjamin Bertie Ridgway (q.v.) and Thomas Harry Ridgway (q.v.), served in the army during the 1939-1945 War, whilst his elder sister, Evelyn M. Rowley (q.v.), served with the Red Cross.

 

 

Thomas Harry Ridgway was born at Thurmaston on the 21st August 1913. He was the son of Ben Ridgway and his wife Edith Alice, nee Goodman. In 1916 his elder brother Charles Henry Ridgway was killed in action whilst serving with the Leicestershire Regiment.

Prior to the war Harry Ridgway, as he was known, worked at Abbey Meadows Mills, Leicester. During the war, like his elder brother, Charles Henry, he served with the Leicestershire Regiment. During this time his wife lived at Abbey Court road, Abbey Lane, Leicester, and his mother lived at 16, Flax Road, Leicester. At one stage during the war Private Ridgway was posted as missing.

His elder brothers, George William Ridgway and Benjamin Bertie Ridgway (q.v.), served in the army during the 1939-1945 War, whilst his elder sister, Evelyn M. Rowley (q.v.), served with the Red Cross.

Harry Ridgway died in Leicestershire during 1981.

 

 

24, Colby Drive, Thurmaston.

 

 

24, Colby Drive, Thurmaston.

 

 

In 1945 Maldwyn Ivor Roberts, whose family home was 4, Harrison Street, Thurmaston, was serving in the army. In the picture, at left, he appears to be wearing the cap badge of the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Yeomanry. The photograph was taken at Schaerbeak, Brussels, Belgium.

Maldwyn Ivor Roberts was born in Wales in 1911. He was married in Leicestershire to Doris E. Pole, and he died in the county in 1980.

 

 

Richard Trevor Roper of Bella Vista, Leicester Road, Thurmaston, was serving with His Majesty's Forces in 1945, and remained so until at least late 1947.

 

 

Henry 'Harry' Rose was born on the 31st May 1911, the son of Henry Rose (see WW1 Index) and his wife Agnes Emma, nee Ballard. During the war he served in the Royal Artillery and was promoted to the rank of Quarter-Master Sergeant. He died on the 12th February 1997, aged 85 years. He and his wife, Gladys Sarah, who died on the 26th September 1974, aged 63 years, are interred in Thurmaston Cemetery.

Henry Rose was the elder brother of Thomas and Kenneth Rose (q.v.).

 

 

Kenneth Rose was born on the 3rd August 1914, and baptised at Thurmaston parish church on the 1st November 1914. He was the son of Henry Rose and his wife Agnes Emma, nee Ballard. His father was a coach painter and had served during the Great War (q.v.). Ken Rose saw some military service with the Leicestershire Regiment and was wounded whilst serving in Holland. After a period of recovery he was sent back on active service. Private, 4863433, Ken Rose was killed in action on 24/03/1945, whilst serving with the 1st Battalion, The Black Watch (Royal Highlanders). He was thirty years' old. He is buried in the Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Germany. He is commemorated on the War Memorial at Thurmaston.

Ken Rose was the younger brother of Henry & Thomas Rose (q.v.).

 

 

Thomas 'Tom' Rose was born on the 16th October 1912, he was the son of Henry Rose and his wife Agnes Emma, nee Ballard. Tom Rose was a prewar regular soldier with the Leicestershire Regiment and in the late 1930's had served out in India. He was due to leave the army, but the war intervened. Tom Rose served in North Africa. During a period when he had been tasked to guard Italian prisoners of war the camp he was stationed at was overrun by German forces. Tom Rose became a prisoner of war. He was sent to the POW camp Stalag 18A, Wolfsburg, Austria. He escaped from the camp, lived off the land, and eventually escaped to England.

Tom Rose was the middle son of his family. His younger brother Ken Rose (q.v.) was killed on active service. His elder brother Henry Rose (q.v.) also served in the Army.

 

 

Charles Henry Ross was born in Leicester on the 30th July 1904. His father, Tertius Roughton Ross, was a horse slaughterer, and his mother, Mary Louisa, nee Vann, was a tailoress. When Charles Henry Ross was a small boy the family lived at 222, Argyle Street, Belgrave Road, Leicester. By 1924 the Ross family were living at 147, Martin Street, Leicester, and Mr. Ross had land and a slaughterhouse on Barkby Road, Thurmaston.

During the 1939-1945 War Charles Henry Ross served as a driver with the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC). He served in North Africa and Italy.

After the war Charles Henry Ross lived at 6, Barkby Thorpe Road, Thurmaston.

Charles Henry Ross died in Leicestershire in 1980.

His younger brother, Tertius Roughton Ross (q.v.), also served in the R.A.S.C. during the war.

 

 

Tertius Roughton Ross was born in Leicester on the 5th November 1908. His father, also Tertius Roughton Ross, was a horse slaughterer, and his mother, Mary Louisa, nee Vann, was a tailoress. When Tertius Roughton Ross, junior, was a small boy the family lived at 222, Argyle Street, Belgrave Road, Leicester. By 1924 the Ross family were living at 147, Martin Street, Leicester, and Mr. Ross had land and a slaughterhouse on Barkby Road, Thurmaston.

On the 1st October 1942, whilst then living at 10, Barkby Thorpe road, Thurmaston, he was called-up for military service,

He became Driver, 14299387, T. R. Ross, Royal Army Service Corps (RASC), and was part of RASC Group 33.

Driver Ross served in North Africa, Italy and Austria, and was later awarded campaign stars that reflected his service in those theatres of operations. When Driver Ross was discharged from the army, in September 1946, his commanding officer recorded on his release certificate that his military conduct had been exemplary. He also stated that Driver Ross was a very clean conciencious worker, never complains and carries out his job without supervision and that he was both reliable and trustworthy. A larger picture of Driver Ross, taken when he was discharged from the army, shows him wearing the medal ribbon of the Africa Star. To see this image click on the following link - Driver Ross

In civilian life Tertius Roughton Ross, Tut as he was known to family and friends, ran a knacker-yard business on Barkby Thorpe road. He and his brothers, who were also part of the business, were well known amongst Leicestershire's farming community.

Tertius Roughton Ross and his wife Ida, nee Ellicock, had seven children: Fred, Ken, Eileen, Margaret, Ray, Julia, and Mike.

His elder brother, Charles Henry Ross (q.v.), also served in the R.A.S.C. during the war.

Mr. Ross later lived at 26, Barby Thorpe road, Thurmaston. He died during 1990.

 

 

Evelyn was born in 1900, the eldest daughter of Ben Ridgway and his wife, Edith Alice, nee Goodman, of Thurmaston. In 1901 her father supported his family by working as a general labourer, however, by 1911 he was working as a platelayer on the railways. In 1911 Evelyn Ridgway lived with her parents and six siblings at a house on Thurmaston's Main Street.

In 1916 her elder brother Charles Henry Ridgway was killed in action whilst serving with the Leicestershire Regiment.

In 1923 Evelyn married James H. Rowley. The couple lived in Leicester. Jim and Evelyn Rowley had one son named Dennis J. Rowley.

Mrs. Rowley served during the 1939-1945 war with the Red Cross. Her younger brothers, George William Ridgway (q.v.), Benjamin Bertie Ridgway (q.v.) and Thomas Harry Ridgway (q.v.) served in the army during the 1939-1945 War.

Mrs. Evelyn M. Rowley died in Leicestershire in 1968.

 

 

28, Methuen Avenue, Thurmaston.