To the memory of the men and women of Hickling who served this country in WWI and WWII

“OUR HONOURED DEAD”

and

“THEY ALSO SERVED”

Introduction The purpose of this book is to commemorate the men and women of Hickling who served in His Majesty’s Armed Services during the two world wars. It is divided into two sections; “Our Honoured Dead” and “They Also Served”. The first section deals with “Our Boys” who lost their lives, some buried far from home, some returned to be buried in St. Mary’s Churchyard, some men were never recovered, but were commemorated on memorials both in Hickling and farther afield, where they fell. The second section records the stories of the survivors, those who returned home, in some cases after suffering terrible wounds, and in many instances suffering the privations of armed conflict and even being held prisoner of war. Our grateful thanks to all those who have so willingly given information, photographs etc and without whose help we could not even have begun to commemorate the lives of these brave men and women. Helen & Tony Cornwell Hickling Local History Group

Adapted for viewing on the Internet by; AC/HC - August 2009 Hickling History: Email; [email protected]

“OUR HONOURED DEAD” “The Village War Memorials bearing the names of those who died in the two World Wars, 1914-1918 and 1939-1945, are on the wall of the north aisle of the Church..…. It will be noted that the First World War memorial in the Church carries the dates 1914 -1919; perhaps in recognition of the tombstone to Gunner Lamb, in the Churchyard, which shows the date of his death on 29th March 1919. This memorial also has the name of Hickling blanked out, an action understood to have been carried out at the beginning of the Second World War, (when milestones and road-signs were widely removed to confuse an enemy).

Many who died in the wars are buried or commemorated elsewhere, and each name on the War Memorials no doubt carries a poignant story. The Commonwealth (formerly the Imperial) War Graves Commission has duties “to mark and maintain the graves of the members of the forces of the Commonwealth who died in the two world wars, to build and maintain memorials to the dead whose graves are unknown, and to keep records and registers.” Information obtained from the Commission is given here in the order that the names appear on the War Memorials in the Church.”

from - “History of the Churchyard” by Ivor Kemp. Hickling Local History Group

World War I Entries from the register of The Commonwealth War Graves Commission


HERBERT SMITH, Vere. 2nd Lieutenant, 3rd Bn. Rifle Brigade, 22nd March 1915. Age 22. Son of Norman and Christine L. Herbert Smith, of 107, Ashley Gardens, Westminster, London. (At La Chappelle-d’Armentieres Old Military Cemetery, Nord, France).
GIBBS, Wilfred. Able Seaman, S.S. Indian Monarch. (This information not recorded by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission) Born 1888, died 1915, son of Robert William Gibbs and Elizabeth Gibbs (née Chapman), of Stubb Road, Hickling.
BELL, Flowerday. Private, 1st Bn., Norfolk Regiment. 21st May 1915. Age 34. Son of the late John and Marie Bell; husband of Jessie Warnes (formerly Bell) of Council Cottages, Hickling. (At Ypres – Menin Gate – Memorial, Ieper, West Vlaanderen).
GIBBS, Edward. Lance Corporal, Ist Bn. Essex Regiment. 13th August, 1915. Age 20. Son of Edward and Edith Gibbs of Hickling. (At Helles Memorial, Turkey).
DYBALL, Frederick. Private, Essex Regiment, formerly Norfolk Regiment, Lost at sea. 13th August, 1916. (At Helles Memorial, Turkey).
WRIGHT, William Walter. Private, 9th Bn. Norfolk Regiment. 18th Sept. 1918. (At Brie British Cemetery, Somme, France).
CHAPMAN, Hezekiah William. Petty Officer, HMS “Pembroke”, Royal Navy. Died as a result of an accident at sea on board HMS “Liffey”. 5th July 1916. Age 34. Naval Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. Son of Jethro Chapman, of Hickling; husband of Emma Phoebe Macdonald (formerly Chapman) of Great Yarmouth. (At Great Yarmouth New Cemetery).
DEFEW, Fredrick. Private, 1st Bn. Machine Gun Corps (Inf.). 2nd August 1916. (At. St. Mary’s Churchyard, Hickling).
NUDD, Alfred. Private, 1st Bn. Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action 4th September 1916. Age 21. Son of John and Ellen Nudd, of Hickling. (At Delville Wood Cemetery, Longueval, Somme).
GIBBS, William George Kerrison. Lance Corporal, 1st Bn. Essex Regiment, formerly Norfolk Regiment. 20th October 1916. (At Heilly Station Cemetery, Mericourt-l’Abbe, Somme, France.
PRATT, Herbert Henry. Deck Hand, HM Drifter “Launch Out”. Royal Naval Reserve. Killed in action with TBDs in Straits of Dover 26th October 1916. Age 24. Son of William and Ann Eliza Pratt, of Hickling. (At Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent). Page 1 Hickling Local History Group


MASON, Otto Cecil. Deck Hand, H. M. Trawler “Sisters Melville”, Royal Naval Reserve. Killed by mine explosion near Aldeburgh 13th Feb., 1917. (At Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent).
LAMBERT, Arthur (Albert) Henry. Private, 2nd R.M. Bn. R.N. Division, Royal Marine Light Infantry. 25th February, 1917. (At Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France).
MILLS, Horace F. Private, 7th Bn. The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment). 30th September 1916. Age 23. Son of Mrs E J Linkhorn, of Stubb Rd., Hickling. (At Blighty Valley Cemetery, Authuile Wood, Somme).
FOX, Harry Norton. 2nd Lieutenant, 1st Bn. Norfolk Regiment. 23rd April 1917. Age 23. Son of Josiah and Frances Fox, of Town Street, Hickling. (At Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais).
BECKETT, Harold Oxley. Leading Signalman, “H.M.S. Derwent”, Royal Navy. Killed by mine explosion in English Channel 2nd May 1917. (At Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent).
CHASE, George Robert. Private, 13th Bn. Essex Regiment. 13th November 1916. Age 23. Son of Charles and Sarah Chase, of Hickling. (At Thiepval Memorial, Somme).
DURRANT, Charles. Private, 1st Bn. Essex Regiment. 14th April 1917. Age 29, Son of Frederick and Mary Ann Durrant, of Hickling. (At Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais).
NUDD, Robert Thomas. Leading Deck Hand, 12/SD. H.M.S. Victory, Royal Naval Reserve. 31st January 1918. Age 23. Son of Thomas Nudd, of Stubb Mill, Hickling. (At St. Mary’s Churchyard).
BEALES, Clarence Orlando Bernard. Corporal, 7th Bn. Norfolk Regiment. Killed in action 9th March 1918. Age 22. Son of the late Albert and Jane Beales, of Hickling; husband of Elizabeth F.M. Beales, of Deal. (At Anzac Cemetery, Sailly-Sur-La-Lys, Pas de Calais).
GIBBS, Walter J. Stoker 2nd Class, H.M.S. Pembroke. Royal Navy, 20th April 1918. Age 18. Son of John and Elizabeth Gibbs, of The Green, Hickling. (At St. Mary’s Churchyard, Hickling).
FOX, James J. 2nd Lieutenant, 12th Norfolk Yeo. Bn., Norfolk Regiment. 11th September 1918. Age 23, son of Peter and Thirza Fox of Hickling; husband of Emma Elizabeth Fox of Broad View, Hickling. (At Strand Military Cemetery, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut).
TURNER, Arthur Victor. Private, 1st Bn., Northamptonshire Regiment. 10th July 1917. Age 23. Son of Richard Frank and Emma Marie Turner, of Hickling. (At Nieuport Memorial, Nieuwpoort, WestVlaanderen, Belgium).
DURRANT Roland Charles. 2nd Hand, HM Drifter “Breadwinner”, Royal Naval Reserve. 29th October 1918. Age 23. Son of Charles and Caroline Mary Durrant, of Sunflower Cottage, Stubb Road, Hickling. (At Belfast City Cemetery, County Antrim).
LAMB, Angus Henry. Gunner, 2nd Reserve Bde. Royal Garrison Artillery. 29th March 1919. (At. St. Mary’s Churchyard, Hickling). Page 2 Hickling Local History Group

In addition to the names mentioned on the War Memorials in the church, the following men, who have associations with Hickling, are listed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission as casualties of war:
DACK, George Seth. Lance Corporal, 24th Bn. Royal Fusiliers. 23rd August 1918. Age 24. Son of Robert George and Anna Dack, of Repps, Martham, Great Yarmouth; husband of Agnes Mary Dack, of Stubb Rd., Hickling, Norfolk. (At Gomiecourt South Cemetery – Pas de Calais.)
REYNOLDS, C. E. Gunner, 7th Siege Bty. Royal Garrison Artillery. 21st June 1918. Brother of Mrs Sarah Ann Gibbs, of Stubb Road, Hickling. (At Longuenesse - St. Omer - Souvenir Cemetery, Pas de Calais.)
TUNGATE, Arthur Elijah. Seaman/Cook, Steam Trawler “Sabrina” (Hull), Mercantile Marine. Drowned, as a result of an attack by an enemy submarine. 20th May 1915. Age 54. Son of the late George and Sarah Tungate; husband of Emmeline Tungate (née Nudd), of Hull. Born at Hickling. (At Tower Hill Memorial, London.)
NUDD, Charles Henry. 3rd Hand, Steam Trawler “Fawn” (Grimsby), Mercantile Marine. Presumed drowned. 24th August 1919. Age 36. Son of Joshua and Charity Nudd, of Stubb Road, Hickling. (At Tower Hill Memorial, London.)

Page 3 Hickling Local History Group

World War II Entries from the register of The Commonwealth War Graves Commission


AMIS, Walter James. Private, Pioneer Corps. 17th October, 1945, aged 29. Son of Walter Robert and Ada Harriett Amis, husband of Joyce Dorothy Amis, of Ridlington, Norfolk. (At Celle War Cemetery, Celle, Niedersachsen, Germany).
CHAPMAN, Ambrose Arthur. Flight Sergeant (Pilot), 111 Squadron, Royal Air Force. 25th March, 1945. (At Padua War Cemetery, Italy).
DISNEY, Philip Allan. Flt. Lieutenant (Nav./Radar), 23 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Son of Alec Robert and Margaret Disney, of Ingham, Norfolk. 22nd March 1945, aged 23. (At Reichswald Forest War cemetery, Kleve, Nordrhein, Westfalen, Germany.
GOLEBY, Clarence Victor. Private, 4th Bn. Royal Norfolk Regiment. 4th June 1943. Age 23. Son of Ruby Goleby, of Hickling; Nephew of Arthur C Goleby, of Hickling. (At Chungkai War Cemetery).
LAMBERT, Bryan Waldo. Sergeant, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. 22nd September 1943. Age 20. Son of Benjamin W. Lambert and Ruby V. Lambert of Hickling. (At Truro – Terrace Hill – Cemetery, Nova Scotia, Canada).
MYHILL, William. Private, 6th Bn. Norfolk Regiment. 3rd January 1944. Age 27. Son of William James Howard Myhill and Jane Priscilla Howard Myhill, of Hickling. (At Chungkai War Cemetery).
NEWMAN, John William. Ordinary Seaman, H.M.S. “Welshman”, Royal Navy. 1st February 1943. Age 20. Son of Ernest M. and Nellie M. Newman, of Hickling. (At Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent).
NUDD, George Edward. Able Seaman, MV Harboe Jenson, Royal Navy. 15th January 1943. Age 31. Son of Abner and Ethel H. Z. Nudd, of Hickling. (At Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent).
TUCK, Hubert Lawrence. Private, 1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment. 1st December 1943. Age 24. Son of Hubert George and May Violet Tuck, of Hickling. (At Sangro River War Cemetery).

In addition to the names mentioned on the War Memorials in the church, the following men, who have associations with Hickling, are listed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission as casualties of war:
FINDLAY, James. Serjeant, 369 Bty., 113 (2/5 Bn. The Durham Light Infantry) Lt. A. A. Regt. Royal Artillery, 11th July, 1944. Age 22. Son of James and Helen Findlay, husband of Winifred Joan Findlay, of Hickling, Norfolk. (At. Hermanville War Cemetery, Calvados.)

Page 4 Hickling Local History Group

The following pages document the known personal histories of the men of this parish who died in defence of their country in World War I VERE HERBERT SMITH, 2ND LIEUT. THE RIFLE BRIGADE .................................... Page 8 WILFRED GIBBS, A.B. S.S. INDIAN MONARCH ........................................................ Page 9 FLOWERDAY BELL, PTE, THE NORFOLK REGT....................................................... Page 10 EDWARD C. GIBBS, LCE. CPL. THE NORFOLK REGT. ............................................. Page 11 FREDERICK DYBALL, PTE, THE NORFOLK REGT. .................................................. Page 12 WILLIAM WRIGHT, PTE, THE NORFOLK REGT. ....................................................... Page 13 HEZEKIAH W. CHAPMAN, TORPDO COXN H.M.S. EXE, R.N. .................................. Page 14 FREDERICK DEFEW, PTE, THE MACHINE GUN CORPS. ........................................ Page 15 ALFRED NUDD, PTE, THE NORFOLK REGT............................................................... Page 16 WILLIAM G.K. GIBBS, LCE. CPL. THE NORFOLK REGT.......................................... Page 17 HERBERT H. PRATT, A.B. H.M.S. LAUNCH OUT, R.N.R. ......................................... Page 18 OTTO C. MASON, A.B. H.M.S. SISTERS MELVILLE. R.N.R...................................... Page 19 ARTHUR H. LAMBERT, PTE. R.M.L.I........................................................................... Page 20 HORACE MILLS, PTE., THE ROYAL WEST SURREY REGT. .................................... Page 21 HARRY N. FOX, 2ND LIEUT. THE NORFOLK REGT.................................................... Page 22 HAROLD O. BECKETT, LDG. SIGLM H.M.S. DERWENT R.N. ................................... Page 23 GEORGE R. CHASE, PTE., THE ESSEX REGT.............................................................. Page 24 CHARLES DURRANT, PTE. THE ESSEX REGT. .......................................................... Page 25 ROBERT T. NUDD, LDG. SEAMN. H.M.S. VICTORY R.N.R........................................ Page 26 CLARENCE O. BEALES CPL. THE NORFOLK REGT.................................................. Page 27 WALTER J. GIBBS, STOKER, H.M.S. PEMBROKE R.N.R. ......................................... Page 28 JAMES J FOX, 2ND LIEUT. THE NORFOLK REGT. ...................................................... Page 29 ARTHUR V. TURNER, PTE, THE NORTHANTS REGT. .............................................. Page 30 ROLAND C. DURRANT, P.O. H.M.S. VIGOROUS, R.N.R. .......................................... Page 31 ANGUS H. LAMB, GUNNER R.G.A. .............................................................................. Page 32

Page 5 Hickling Local History Group

Listed elsewhere than the Hickling Memorials World War I C. E. REYNOLDS, Gunner 7th Siege Bty. Royal Garrison Artillery................................ Page 34 CHARLES HENRY NUDD, Seaman, 3rd Hand. .............................................................. Page 35 ARTHUR ELIJAH TUNGATE, Seaman, Cook. .............................................................. Page 36 GEORGE SETH DACK, LCE. CPL. 24th Bn. Royal Fusiliers......................................... Page 37

Page 6 Hickling Local History Group

The following pages document the known personal histories of the men of this parish who died in defence of their country in World War II WALTER J. AMIS PTE. R PIONEER CORPS................................................................. Page 39 AMBROSE A CHAPMAN FLT SERGT RAF.................................................................. Page 40 PHILIP A DISNEY FLT LIEUT RAF............................................................................... Page 41 CLARENCE V GOLEBY PTE R NORFOLK REGT ....................................................... Page 42 BRYAN W LAMBERT SERGT NAVR RAF................................................................... Page 43 WILLIAM H MYHILL PTE . NORFOLK REGT............................................................. Page 44 JACK W NEWMAN ORD SEAMAN RN ........................................................................ Page 45 GEORGE E NUDD ABLE SEAMAN RN ........................................................................ Page 46 HUBERT L TUCK PTE E SURREY REGT ..................................................................... Page 47

Listed elsewhere than the Hickling Memorials World War II JAMES FINDLAY, SERJEANT, DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY.................................. Page 48

Page 7 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Herbert Smith

Vere

2nd Lieutenant

3rd Bn. Rifle Brigade

Vere Herbert Smith, Son of Norman and Christine Louise Herbert Smith, of 107, Ashley Gardens, Westminster, London. 2nd Lieutenant Vere Herbert Smith, killed 22nd March 1915, aged 22. Buried at La Chappelle-d’Armentieres Old Military Cemetery, Nord, France. Memorial in St. Mary’s Church, North Wall of Chancel: Plaque (Rectangular) with White Column and Pediment Surround: TO THE DEAR MEMORY OF NORMAN HERBERT SMITH 13

TH

NOV. 1857 – 15TH APRIL 1920 AND OF HIS WIFE CHRISTINE LOUISE

19

TH

APRIL 1869 – 11TH NOV. 1947

THE SOULS OF THE RIGHTEOUS ARE IN THE HAND OF GOD ALSO IN HONOURED MEMORY OF THEIR BELOVED ELDER SON VERE HERBERT SMITH 2

ND

LIEUTENANT THE RIFLE BRIGADE,

WHO FELL IN ACTION IN FRANCE MARCH 21ST 1915 AGED 22 YRS. LAID TO REST AT CHAPPELLE D’ARMENTIERES HIS LIFE FOR HIS COUNTRY HIS SOUL TO GOD

The Herbert Smiths, whilst listed as living in London, spent much time in Hickling, and were staunch supporters of the church.

Page 8 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Gibbs

Wilfred

A.B.

S.S. Indian Monarch

Wilfred Gibbs, Born 1888, son of Robert William and Elizabeth Gibbs (née Chapman), of Stubb Road, Hickling. He was the eldest of five children, his siblings being Walter, Thirza Mahala, William, and Sidney. Died 1915.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission holds no information on Wilfred Gibbs or S.S. Indian Monarch

Page 9 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Bell

Flowerday

Pte.

1st Bn. Norfolk Regiment

Flowerday Bell. Son of the late John and Marie Bell; husband of Jessie Warnes (formerly Bell) of Council Cottages, Hickling. Private 16857 Flowerday Bell, killed 21st May 1915, aged 34. Commemorated: Ypres – Menin Gate – Memorial, Ieper, West Vlaanderen, Belgium.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, July 1915: “Then came the news that Flowerday Bell, of the Norfolk Regiment, had been killed in action in Flanders on May 22nd. It seemed impossible to realize that he was really dead; he had left us such a short time, and was so full of life and energy when he last came home on leave. He had been for seven years in the London Fire Brigade, and was a fine specimen of an athletic sturdy East Norfolk working man, very anxious to do what he could for his King and Country, and keen to get to the front as soon as possible. He leaves a widow and three little children, and an aged mother, for all of whom the deepest sympathy is felt.”

Page 10 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Gibbs

Edward

Lance Corporal

1st Bn. Essex Regiment, formerly Norfolk Regiment

Edward Gibbs. Son of Edward and Edith Gibbs of Hickling. Lance Corporal 20685 Edward Gibbs, killed 13th August, 1915, aged 20. Commemorated: Helles Memorial, Turkey. Edward Gibbs attended a recruiting meeting held in the school on Wednesday, December 2nd, 1914, and was thereafter enlisted. Lance Corporal 20685 Edward Gibbs is believed to have lost his life when the ship, the “Royal Edward” was torpedoed & sunk on the 13th of August 1915. The troops she carried consisted mainly of reinforcements for the 29th Division, and detachments of the Royal Army Medical Corps. 1000 men were believed killed with 600

being rescued from the sea. On board with Edward was another Hickling man, Frederick Dyball who was also killed. The Royal Edward was built in 1908, of 11,117 grt. She was torpedoed by German U-boat UB 14, 6 miles

West from Kandeliusa, Aegean Sea in position 36.13N, 25.51E. She was carrying troops and government stores from Avonmouth & Alexandria to Mudros. She was owned by Canadian Northern Steamships Ltd of Toronto.

Page 11 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Dyball

Frederick

Pte.

Essex Regiment, formerly Norfolk Regiment

Private 20601 Frederick Dyball, Lost at sea. 13th August, 1915. Commemorated: Helles Memorial, Turkey. “Frederick Dyball attended a recruiting meeting held in Hickling school on Wednesday, December 2nd, 1914, and was thereafter enlisted.” Private 20601 Fredrick Dyball is believed to have lost his life when the ship, the “Royal Edward” was torpedoed & sunk on the 13th of August 1915. The troops she carried consisted mainly of reinforcements for the 29th Division, and detachments of the Royal Army Medical Corps. 1000 men were belived killed with 600 being rescued

from the sea. On board with Frederick was another Hickling man, Edward Gibbs, who was also killed. The Royal Edward was built in 1908, of 11,117 grt. She was torpedoed by German U-boat UB 14, 6 miles

West from Kandeliusa, Aegean Sea in position 36.13N, 25.51E. She was carrying troops and government stores from Avonmouth & Alexandria to Mudros. She was owned by Canadian Northern Steamships Ltd of Toronto.

“His King and Country called him, The call was not in vain, On Britain’s Roll of Honour, You’ll find this Hero’s name”.

Page 12 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Wright

William Walter

Pte.

9th Btn. Norfolk Regiment.

William Walter Wright, Born in Walthamstow and enlisted in Norwich. Private 24900 William Walter Wright, killed 18th Sept. 1918. Buried / Commemorated: Brie British Cemetery, Somme, France.

Page 13 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Chapman

Hezekiah William

Petty Officer Torpedo Coxn

HMS “Pembroke” Royal Navy

Hezekiah William Chapman. Husband of Emma, and son of Jethro & Hannah Chapman, of Hickling, one of twelve children. Petty Officer 197307 Hezekiah William Chapman died as a result of an accident at sea on board HMS “Liffey”. 5th July 1916, aged 34. Buried at Great Yarmouth New Cemetery. Awarded: Naval Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.

HMS Liffey was a River Class destroyer built in September 1904. This class marked the break between torpedo boats and true destroyers and set the destroyer programmes of Britain and other major naval powers until 1916. The class served the Royal Navy well and was used during WWI for patrol and escort duties. Due to their higher silhouette which made them more visible they were less suited for surprise torpedo attacks. The River Class destroyers were built by various boat yards including Palmer, Yarrow, Hawthorn Leslie, Laird, Thornycroft and White. HMS Liffey was broken up in 1919.

Page 14 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Defew

Frederick

Private

1st Bn. Machine Gun Corps (Inf.).

Frederick Defew. Private 16315 Frederick Defew, killed: 2nd August 1916. Buried: St. Mary’s Churchyard, Hickling. Grave Reference: 300

The entry in the Churchyard Survey Records reads:

“Headstone: Plain Oval, Decoration - Regimental Badge and Cross.” (Grave provided and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission) 16315 PRIVATE F. DEFEW MACHINE GUN CORPS 2ND AUGUST 1916”

Page 15 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Nudd

Alfred

Pte.

1st Bn. Norfolk Regiment

Alfred Nudd. Son of John and Ellen Nudd, of Hickling. Private 17109 Alfred Nudd, killed in action 4th September 1916, aged 21 Buried / Commemorated: Delville Wood Cemetery, Longueval, Somme, France. Private 17109 Alfred Nudd attended a recruiting meeting held in the school on Wednesday, December 2nd, 1914, and was thereafter enlisted. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, November 1916: “A Memorial Service for the late Alfred Nudd was held on Sunday, October 1st, and a very large congregation was present to pay a last token of respect to the memory of one who was held in high esteem. The musical parts of the Burial office were very reverently and sympathetically rendered by the choir, and a bugle party of the Norfolk Regiment sounded the “last post” at the end of the service. I heard from a Norfolk officer that Alfred Nudd showed great bravery in the engagement in which he was killed, and remained unflinchingly with his machine gun to the last; and it will be a comfort to his mother to know that he was buried after the engagement.”

Page 16 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Gibbs

William George Kerrison

Lance Corporal

1st Bn. Essex Regiment, formerly Norfolk Regiment

William George Kerrison Gibbs. Lance Corporal 20809 William George Kerrison Gibbs, killed: 20th October 1916. Buried: Heilly Station Cemetery, Mericourt-l’Abbe, Somme, France. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, November 1916: “We are very sorry to hear that Corporal William Gibbs, (East Field) Norfolk Regiment, attached to the 1st Essex, has been wounded in France, and is now at a base hospital. He has seen a great deal of strenuous service, being sent first to Gallipoli, and having some terrible experiences there, being among the last to leave the Peninsula; then he went to Egypt, and from there was sent to France, where he has been in the thick of the fighting for many months. Those who know him will feel confident that he has all the qualities of a fine soldier, and we wish him a speedy and complete recovery, and hope soon to see him back on leave in Hickling;” and in December 1916: “It is with great sorrow that we received the news that Lc.-corporal William G. K. Gibbs, Norfolk Regiment; attached to the 1st Essex, had died on October 20th of wounds received in action in France. He was severely wounded in the chest, but was making some progress, and hopes were entertained of his recovery. Pneumonia, however, set in, and he gradually sank and died, and he was reverently laid to rest in a little Churchyard near the casualty clearing station. William Gibbs was a fine example of Norfolk manhood, and a very attractive personality. He bore an unblemished character, was a good Churchman, a regular communicant, and very keen on his soldiering. He was an only son, and our most heartfelt sympathy goes out to his sorrowing father, mother and sister. Their great consolation must be the memory of his good brave life and gallant death, and the hope of reunion in the better land.” In February 1917 he writes: “The sum of £2 6s. has been sent to the Belgian Red Cross, as the result of the offerings in Hickling Church on November 26th, when a memorial service was held for the late W. G. K. Gibbs and H. H. Pratt, of this parish.”

Page 17 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Pratt

Herbert Henry

Deck Hand

HM Drifter “Launch Out” R. N. R.

Herbert Henry Pratt. Son of William and Ann Eliza Pratt, of Hickling. Deck Hand 8567DA Herbert Henry Pratt, killed in action with Torpedo Boat Destroyers in Straits of Dover 26th October 1916, aged 24. Commemorated: Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, December 1916: “A few days later we received the equally sad news that a gallant sailor, Herbert Pratt, had been killed in action, in the Channel raid on October 26th. He was serving in the R.N.R. fleet of steam drifter mine-sweepers and patrol boats. He was a fine upstanding fellow, tall and straight and the last time I saw him I thought he looked the very picture of a British sailor. He bore a high character, and was liked by all. He was the youngest son of his widowed mother, and a most good and thoughtful son too. To that mother, who lost her husband only six months ago, we offer our tender sympathy in this added sorrow. She will always be comforted by the remembrance of her boy’s goodness to her, and by the knowledge that he died at his post of duty, and is in God’s gracious care and keeping till the Great Day. We offer our sympathy to all the brothers and sisters of the deceased sailor. Two of his brothers are serving in the R.N.R.” In February 1917 he wrote: “The sum of £2 6s. has been sent to the Belgian Red Cross, as the result of the offerings in Hickling Church on November 26th, when a memorial service was held for the late W. G. K. Gibbs and H. H. Pratt, of this parish.”

Drifter “Launch Out” built 1909, 67 tons. Hired 1915. Sunk by gunfire from German destroyers in the Dover Strait 27 Oct 1916. She was part of the large fleet that maintained the net barrage across the Dover Strait to prevent German submarines passing westward into the Channel. They were also equipped to attack U Boats as well as maintain the barrage.Launch Out was in company with the drifters Young Crow, EBC, Ajax II, Mishe Nahama and IFS in the vicinity of 9a buoy along the barrage when they were attacked by the destroyers. Ajax II and Launch Out were sunk, EBC was damaged. Buoy 9a was at the southern end of the Sandettie Bank.The use of the name in modern times indicate that she may have been based at Pittenweem prior to being hired by the Navy.

Page 18 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Mason

Otto Cecil

Deck Hand

H. M. Trawler “Sisters Melville”, R. N. R.

Otto Cecil Mason. Deck Hand 1025DA Otto Cecil Mason, killed by mine explosion near Aldeburgh 13th Febuary 1917. Commemorated: Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, March 1917: “We have also received from the Admiralty the tragic news of the death of one of our sailors, Otto Cecil Mason, who, though recently living in Catfield, had his home in Hickling at the outbreak of the war. He was killed in the blowing up of H.M. Trawler, Sisters Melville, on February 13th. Our deep sympathy goes out to his parents and to his wife, who only recently became a mother.”

It is believed that the H.M. Trawler, “Sisters Melville” was a “Q” ship. “Q” ships were small armed vessels deployed in the roll of Submarine Hunter / Killers. Being small and with the appearance of an enemy trawler, they very often were able to lure a U Boat to the surface. The captains of U Boats were reluctant to expend their valuable Torpedoes on small vessels and would surface and attempt to sink smaller unarmed vessels by gunfire. The “Q” ships played a very valuable and often underestimated roll in protecting England’s Royal Navy and Merchant fleets. They were responsible for the sinking of quite a number of U Boats and damaging a great deal more. They were very often found in the area around our coastline and particularly in the Channel.

Page 19 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Lambert

Arthur Henry

Pte.

2nd R.M. Bn. R.N. Division, Royal Marine Light Infantry

Arthur (Albert) Henry Lambert. Private PO/1319(S) Arthur Henry Lambert, killed 25th February, 1917. Buried / Commemorated: Dernancourt Communal Cemetery Extension, Somme, France.

Page 20 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Mills

Horace F.

Pte.

7th Bn. The Queen’s (Royal West Surrey Regiment)

Horace F. MILLS. Son of Mrs E. J. Linkhorn, of Stubb Rd., Hickling. Private G/21184 Horace F. MILLS, killed 30th September 1916, aged 23. Buried / Commemorated: Blighty Valley Cemetery, Authuile Wood, Somme, France.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, February 1917: “George Chase and Horace Mills are both reported “missing.” We hope it will turn out that they are prisoners of war. We offer our deepest sympathy to their parents in their present great suspense and anxiety. Though it is not well to underestimate the grave seriousness of the matter, let us thank God that there is still hope that they may be alive and well. We earnestly pray it may be so.”

Page 21 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Fox

Harry Norton

2nd Lt.

1st Bn. Norfolk Regiment

Harry Norton Fox. Son of Josiah and Frances Fox, of Town Street, Hickling. Second Lieutenant Harry Norton Fox, killed 23rd April 1917, aged 23. Commemorated: Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, June 1917: “Second-Lieut. H. N. Fox, Norfolk Regiment, was killed in action in France. He was wounded, but managed to carry on for some time, when he was instantly killed by a bullet through the head. I had watched his career for many years; he was a promising boy, and hard work and a good intellect enabled him to fulfil the promise of his boyhood. He was unfortunate in failing to obtain a County Council scholarship from one school, but he went to the Paston School at North Walsham, and at once made his mark, both in work and games. After teaching for a while at Stalham, he went to the Borough Road College for teachers, and was doing excellently. He enlisted in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, and saw much active service and fierce fighting in France; and in recognition of his good work he was awarded a field commission in the Norfolk Regiment. He was a fine soldier, and his colonel and brother officers speak most highly of his courage and the excellence of his work, and they most sincerely mourn his loss, as we all do here. He was a fine footballer, cricketer, and runner, and did not know the meaning of fear. We desire to offer our deep sympathy to his parents in their very great loss.”

Page 22 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Beckett

Harold Oxley

Leading Signalman

“H.M.S. Derwent” Royal Navy

Harold Oxley Beckett. Leading Signalman 194625 Harold Oxley Beckett, killed by mine explosion in English Channel 2nd May 1917, aged 35. Commemorated: Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent. Harold Oxley Beckett was born on 10th May, 1881, one of eleven children of Arthur and Emily Beckett, who had a butchery business in Hickling, on property now known (in 2006) as Black Horse Cottage. He married Agnes Elizabeth Soanes, of Gorleston, on 4th April, 1914, and they had one child, a daughter, Agnes Eileen, born in 1916. After his death, his widow returned to Gorleston. Their grandaughter, Lesley Nixey (née Beckett), has provided this photograph for the History Group. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, June 1917: “Harold Beckett, who was a leading signalman on the destroyer, H.M.S. Derwent, lost his life by a mine explosion in the Channel. I first remember him a curly-headed little boy in our Sunday School, and he and I were always real friends. He joined the Navy at an early age, and was a fine type of a British sailor - genial, merry and full of pluck, and with a great gift of humour - and he will be missed by hosts of friends. He belongs to a family that have been long connected with this parish and Church. His father was much respected as one of our leading tradesmen, and was for many years parish clerk, and only resigned the office owing to ill health. Harold Beckett leaves behind him a widow and little daughter, and I know that there is no one in this parish who does not feel for them most deeply in this terrible bereavement. May God comfort all such whom war makes desolate and broken hearted.”

Page 23 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Chase

George Robert

Pte.

13th Bn. Essex Regiment

George Robert Chase. Son of Charles Edward and Sarah Anna Chase (née Trory), of Hickling. Private 27855 George Robert Chase, killed in action 13th November 1916, aged 23. Commemorated: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, February 1917: “George Chase and Horace Mills are both reported “missing.” We hope it will turn out that they are prisoners of war. We offer our deepest sympathy to their parents in their present great suspense and anxiety. Though it is not well to underestimate the grave seriousness of the matter, let us thank God that there is still hope that they may be alive and well. We earnestly pray it may be so;” and in June 1917: “We have still no news of George Chase, who was reported missing on November 13th of last year; and our prayers and sympathy are with his parents in their increasing strain of anxiety and suspense.” In April 1918 he wrote: “It was pleasant to see that so many parishioners attended the Memorial Service on March 10th to pay a last tribute of respect to Private Charles Durrant, who died a prisoner of war in German hands, and Private George Chase, who was reported missing sixteen months ago, and was lately officially reported as killed in action. We sincerely mourn these two men, who were so well known to us all. This brings the number of men we have lost in the war to the total of twenty-two (a large number for a parish of this size). The choir rendered the solemn music of the burial office very sweetly and reverently, and the large congregation entered with full sympathy into the spirit of the service. Captain Knowles, of the South Lancashire Regiment, kindly sent over two buglers to sound the “Last Post.”

Page 24 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Durrant

Charles

Pte.

1st Bn. Essex Regiment

Charles Durrant. Son of Frederick and Mary Ann Durrant, of Hickling Private 41323 Charles Durrant, died 14th April 1917, aged 29. Commemorated: Arras Memorial, Pas de Calais, France.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, June 1917: “Charles Durrant, of the Essex Regiment, was reported missing on April 14th. We still hope we may have news of him as being yet alive, but we know how terrible is the waiting for news in such a case. May God strengthen and comfort those who watch and wait, and restore to us one whose loss would be deeply mourned by many.” In April 1918 he wrote “It was pleasant to see that so many parishioners attended the Memorial Service on March 10th to pay a last tribute of respect to Private Charles Durrant, who died a prisoner of war in German hands, and Private George Chase, who was reported missing sixteen months ago, and was lately officially reported as killed in action. We sincerely mourn these two men, who were so well known to us all. This brings the number of men we have lost in the war to the total of twenty-two (a large number for a parish of this size). The choir rendered the solemn music of the burial office very sweetly and reverently, and the large congregation entered with full sympathy into the spirit of the service. Captain Knowles, of the South Lancashire Regiment, kindly sent over two buglers to sound the “Last Post.”

Page 25 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Nudd

Robert Thomas

Leading Deck Hand

H.M.S. Victory R.N.R.

Robert Thomas Nudd. Son of Thomas Nudd, of Stubb Mill, Hickling. Leading Deck Hand 12/SD Robert Thomas Nudd, died in Royal Naval Hospital “Haslar”, 31st January 1918, aged 23. Buried at St. Mary’s Hickling. Grave reference: 283 The entry in St. Mary’s Churchyard Survey Records reads: “Headstone: Plain Oval, Decoration - Naval Anchor, Cross. (Grave provided and Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission) R. T. NUDD LEADING DECK-HAND RNR 12 / SD H.M.S. “VICTORY” 31ST JANUARY 1918 AGE 23 DEAR ARE THE MEMORIES THAT NEVER WILL FADE OF ONE WE LOVED DEARLY BUT COULD NOT SAVE” Scroll signed by the King and presented to the Nudd family

Page 26 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Beales

Clarence Orlando Bernard

Cpl.

7th Bn. Norfolk Regiment

Clarence Orlando Bernard Beales. Son of the late Albert and Jane Beales, of Hickling; husband of Elizabeth F.M. Beales, of Deal. Corporal 17095 Clarence Orlando Bernard Beales, killed in action, 9th March 1918, aged 22. Buried / Commemorated: Anzac Cemetery, Sailly-Sur-La-Lys, Pas de Calais, France.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, June 1918: “We have unfortunately more sad events to record this month. The death of Corpl. Clarence O. Beales, of the Norfolk Regiment, was a great shock and grief to us all. He was killed in France with many of his comrades by a shell which hit the house where he was billeted. He survived his mother by about ten days. He had been married only two days before returning to the front, and we feel very deeply for his young widow, who is well known to us all. Clarence Beales was a fine boy, liked and respected by all who knew him; he was a member of our Church choir, and we shall miss him very much. A special service held in his memory was attended by a large number of relatives and friends.”

Page 27 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Gibbs

Walter J.

Stoker 2nd Class

H.M.S. Pembroke Royal Navy

Walter J. Gibbs. Son of John and Elizabeth Gibbs, of The Green, Hickling. Stoker 2nd Class K/48981 Walter J. Gibbs, died 20th April 1918, aged 18. Buried: At St. Mary’s Churchyard, Hickling. Grave Reference: 180

The entry in St. Mary’s Churchyard Survey Records reads: “Headstone: Oval, Decoration - Naval Anchor in Circle, and Cross”. (Grave provided and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission) W. J. GIBBS STOKER 2 CLASS R. N. K/48981 H.M.S. “PEMBROKE” 20TH APRIL 1918 AGE 18 ND

“PEACE PERFECT PEACE”

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, June 1918: “Walter Gibbs, who was a fine type of British sailor, died of pneumonia in the Naval Hospital at Chatham. His mother and sister were able to be with him, and it is a great comfort to them to have been able to cheer him in his last hours. He, like his soldier comrade, was a fine boy, and a credit to this village and the service which he joined. We offer to his parents our deep sympathy in this great sorrow.”

Page 28 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Fox

James J.

2nd Lt.

12th Norfolk Yeo. Bn. Norfolk Regiment

James John Fox. Husband of Emma Elizabeth Fox of Broad View, Hickling. Son of Peter and Thirza Fox of Hickling. Second Lieutenant James John Fox, killed in action in France, 11th September 1918, aged 23. Buried / Commemorated: Strand Military Cemetery, Comines-Warneton, Hainaut, Belgium.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, December 1918: “A Memorial Service for the late 2nd Lieut. James J. Fox, Norfolk Regiment, was held in the Primitive Methodist Chapel on Sunday, October 13th, amid every sign of respect for the memory of a brave officer and much valued friend.”

A memorial plaque to James is on the South wall of the Hickling Methodist Church, a photograph of which is below. Also below, is a photograph of a hand carved copy of “The Lords Prayer”, carved by James John Fox, which adorns the East wall of the “School Room”.

Page 29 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Turner

Arthur Victor

Private

1st Bn., Northamptonshire Regiment

Arthur Victor Turner. Son of Richard Frank and Emma Marie Turner, of Hickling. Private 43439 Arthur Victor Turner, killed in action in France, 10th July 1917, aged 23. Commemorated: Nieuport Memorial, Nieuwpoort, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium. A memorial plaque to Arthur is on the north wall of the Hickling Methodist Church, a photograph of which is below:

Page 30 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Durrant

Roland Charles

2nd Hand

HM Drifter “Breadwinner” R.N.R.

Roland Charles Durrant. Son of Charles and Caroline Mary Durrant, of Sunflower Cottage, Stubb Road, Hickling. Second Hand CH/6089/DA Roland Charles Durrant, 29th October 1918, aged 23. Buried: Belfast City Cemetery, County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, December 1918: “The news that Roland Charles Durrant, R.N.R., had died in Belfast Hospital of pneumonia, following influenza, came to us all as a great shock. He was a fine lad and a fine sailor, and had seen much service during the war. It seems doubly sad that having come safely through so much hard and heavy service at sea, he should lose his life just at the coming of peace. His mother, on receipt of the news of his critical condition, at once travelled to Ireland, but arrived too late to see him alive; she was able to attend his funeral. We were all fond of Charles Durrant, and held him in respect. We mourn him sincerely, and sympathise most deeply with his parents and many relatives and friends. We have paid a heavy toll in this war, having lost eight sailors and eighteen soldiers.”

Page 31 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Lamb

Angus Henry

Gunner

2nd Reserve Bde. Royal Garrison Artillery

Angus Henry Lamb. Gunner 210134 Angus Henry Lamb, died 29th March 1919, aged 24. Buried: At St. Mary’s Churchyard, Hickling. Grave Reference: 222

The entry in St. Mary’s Churchyard Survey Records reads: Headstone: White Marble Rounded, Decoration – Regimental Badge set in Cross, (Grave provided and Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission) Inscription: UBIQUE, QUO FAS ET GLORIA DUCUNT. (EVERYWHERE WHERE RIGHT AND GLORY LEAD)

210134 GUNNER A.H. LAMB ROYAL GARRISON ARTILLERY 29TH MARCH 1919 AGE 24

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, June 1919: “We have to add yet another name to our long Roll of Honour - pray God, it may be the last. Gunner Angus Henry Lamb, R.G.A., has died in Netley Hospital, and has been buried in Hickling Churchyard We all have many pleasant recollections of Angus Lamb - he was a fine boy, of high character and sterling worth, and a good son to his mother. He was taken ill the day before he should have sailed on his return journey to the United States, and though his mother went off at once to Netley, she arrived too late to see him alive. We offer to her and to the other members of her family our very deep sympathy.”

Page 32 Hickling Local History Group

The following men have associations with Hickling, but are not commemorated on St. Mary’s War Memorial. They are listed by The Commonwealth War Graves Commission as casualties of war:

Page 33 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Reynolds

CE

Gunner

7th Siege Bty. Royal Garrison Artillery

C. E. Reynolds. Brother of Mrs Sarah Ann Gibbs, of Stubb Road, Hickling. Gunner 38495 C. E. Reynolds, 21st June 1918. Buried / Commemorated: Longuenesse - St. Omer - Souvenir Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France.

Page 34 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Nudd

Charles Henry

Seaman, 3rd Hand

Steam Trawler “Fawn” (Grimsby), Mercantile Marine

Charles Henry Nudd. Son of Joshua and Charity Nudd, of Stubb Road, Hickling. Seaman, 3rd Hand Charles Henry Nudd, presumed drowned. 24th August 1919, aged 36. Commemorated: Tower Hill Memorial, London.

Page 35 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Tungate

Arthur Elijah

Seaman, Cook

Steam Trawler “Sabrina” (Hull), Mercantile Marine

Arthur Elijah Tungate. Husband of Emmeline Tungate (née Nudd), of 41, Eastbourne St., Hull. Son of the late George and Sarah Tungate. Born at Hickling. Seaman Cook Arthur Elijah Tungate, killed: 20th May 1915, aged 54. “Drowned, as a result of an attack by an enemy submarine.” Note: This information from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission may be incorrect, please see below. Commemorated: Tower Hill Memorial, London.

Note: Investigations into the Steam Trawler “Sabrina” of Hull, show the record of the Sabrina - H346 as being: “Built in hull in 1897 by Cook, Welton & Gemmell Ltd. A vessel of 179 tons, and 118.9 feet in length.” Several records report that she was sunk - “Lost With All Hands”- by a mine 160 miles ENE from Spurn Light Vessel. Many enemy mines were sown in the English Channel by submarine, and this may be the source of the confusion with the information held by the C.W.G.C.

Page 36 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Dack

George Seth

Lance Corporal

24th Bn. Royal Fusiliers

George Seth Dack. Husband of Agnes Mary Dack, of Stubb Road, Hickling, Norfolk. Son of Robert George and Anna Dack, of Repps, Martham, Great Yarmouth. Lance Corporal 34574 George Seth Dack, killed in Action: 23rd August 1918, aged 24. Buried: Gomiecourt South Cemetery – Pas de Calais, France. George and his wife Agnes Mary lived with Agnes’s adoptive parents, the Gazes, in Hickling, in a farmhouse at the end of Stubb Road, which later fell down. They had one son, George Walter, born on 6th September, 1915 and later, after he was killed, their daughter Daisy was born in November 1918. Daisy married G. Shearing, and died in January 2005. Son George Dack, at this time, July 2006, is still alive and living in Norwich. There was a tribute to George Seth Dack in St. Mary’s church, which is recorded in the Deanery Magazines. His name was never entered on the war memorial, possibly because he had not set up his own home in Hickling, being away most of his married life in the army. He is, however, commemorated on Repps’ War Memorial. His widow is buried in Hickling Churchyard. Tragically, George’s brother, aged 19, was killed the following day – 24th August 1918, another brother being held as a prisoner of war by the Germans.

Agnes Dack’s Memorial reads: IN LOVING MEMORY OF AGNES MARY DACK DIED 26TH JULY 1962 AGED 67 YEARS ALSO HER HUSBAND GEORGE SETH DACK KILLED IN ACTION George Seth Dack

2ND BATTLE OF THE SOMME

Pictured left with his wife Agnes and son George Walter.

23RD AUGUST 1918 AGED 24 YEARS

Pictured above, front row - left, with some of his mates. Picture courtesy of “The Sporting Life” November 1990.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, December, 1918: “The esteem in which the late Lc.-corpl. George Seth Dack, Royal Fusiliers, was held, in this parish was shewn by the large congregation which assembled on Sunday, October 20th, to commend his soul to the keeping of God, and to pay a last sad tribute of respect to his memory.”

Page 37 Hickling Local History Group

WW II

Page 38 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Amis

Walter J.

Pte.

Royal Pioneer Corps

Walter James Amis. Husband of Joyce Dorothy Amis, of Ridlington, Norfolk. Son of Walter Robert and Ada Harriett Amis, Private 5954278 Walter James Amis, died 17th October, 1945, aged 29. Buried / Commemorated: Celle War Cemetery, Celle, Niedersachsen, Germany.

Page 39 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Chapman

Ambrose A.

Flt Sergeant

Royal Air Force

Ambrose (Bro) Arthur Chapman. Flight Sergeant 571903 Ambrose Arthur Chapman, died of wounds received when shot down, 25th March 1945. Buried / Commemorated: Padua War Cemetery, Italy. Awarded: The 1939-45 Star; The Africa Star; The Africa Clasp; The Italy Star; The Defence Medal; War Medal. Ambrose was the son of Ambrose and Alice Chapman, who lived in various properties around the Doves Corner part of Hickling. His brother Tommy also served in the war, but survived and later emigrated to Canada. Tommy’s daughter, Jennifer Goldsmith kindly provided the photograph, and various other documents and photographs, which are deposited in the History Group’s archives. Letters written home by Ambrose (known to his squadron as Bro.) indicate that he loved being a pilot, and would not have chosen any other career.

Page 40 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Disney

Philip A

Flt. lieutenant

Royal Air Force

Philip Allan Disney. Son of Alec Robert and Margaret Disney, of Ingham, Norfolk. Flight Lieutenant 139616 Philip Allan Disney, died 22nd March 1945, aged 23. Buried / Commemorated: Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Kleve, Nordrhein, Westfalen, Germany.

Page 41 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Goleby

Clarence V

Pte

4th Bn. Royal Norfolk Regiment

Clarence Victor Goleby. Son of Ruby Goleby, of Hickling; Nephew of Arthur C. Goleby, of Hickling. Private 5780231 Clarence Victor Goleby, died 4th June 1943, age 23, in a Japanese prisoner of war camp. Buried: Chungkai War Cemetery, Thailand.

From November 1990 Sporting Life: “Below, Clarence Victor Goleby from Hickling, who died of starvation as a slave labourer building the infamous Burma Railway. Clarence joined the 4th Norfolk’s aged 18 and was captured by the Japanese at Singapore.”

Page 42 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Lambert

Bryan W.

Sergeant

N.A.V.R . Royal Air Force

Bryan Waldo Lambert. Son of Benjamin W. Lambert and Ruby V. Lambert of Hickling. Sergeant 1388658 Bryan Waldo Lambert, died 22nd September 1943, aged 20. Buried / Commemorated: Truro – Terrace Hill – Cemetery, Nova Scotia, Canada.

Page 43 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Myhill

William H.

Pte.

6th Bn.Norfolk Regiment

William Myhill. Son of William James Howard Myhill and Jane Priscilla Howard Myhill, of Hickling. Private 5773993 William Myhill, died 3rd January 1944, aged 27, in a Japanese prisoner of war camp. Buried: Chungkai War Cemetery Thailand.

Page 44 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Newman

Jack William

Ordinary Seaman R.N.

H.M.S. “Welshman”, Royal Navy

John William Newman. Son of Ernest M. and Nellie M. Newman, of Hickling. Ordinary Seaman (R.N.) C/JX 316935 John William Newman, killed in action 1st February 1943, aged 20. Commemorated: Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent.

HMS Welshman (Capt. William Howard Dennis Friedberger, DSO, RN) was returning from Malta to Alexandria when she was sunk about 35 nautical miles east-northeast off Tobruk, Libya in position 32º12'N, 24º52'E, by torpedoes from the German submarine U-617. The Welshman was an Abdiel Class Cruiser / Minelayer. She had a compliment of 242 men and the principal role of this class was the main British minelayer (or warship minelayers as opposed to auxiliary minelayers). The class was built in two groups, and the ships and their armament differed considerably. They were very fast at 40 knots and could do the Gibraltar to Malta run overnight and were used to supply fuel & food to the island. HMS Welshman supported the island of Malta during the long siege in WW2. The island population resisted strongly and was collectively awarded the highest decoration for civilian bravery. Welshman brought food and essential supplies many times; her role was featured in the UK movie The Malta Story. When unloading in Valetta harbour she was attacked and suffered a near miss which damaged her prop shafts, putting one of her three engines out of service. As her principal fighting strength was her extreme speed this damage affected her ability to perform drastically. She was also torpedoed subsequently, but made it home to the United Kingdom and was repaired at Devonport. She returned to the Mediterranean to serve on the same relief duty, steaming under disguise and simulating French warships. See the addendum at the rear of this book for a survivor’s account of his life aboard HMS Welshman, including the day she was sunk and Jack died, together with copies of signals and letters describing her role and that of her crew in the defence of Malta. Entry from official German U Boat records; At 17.45 hours on 1 Feb, 1943, U-617 fired a spread of four torpedoes at a vessel identified as cruiser of the Didoclass and observed two hits and a boiler explosion. At 17.55 hours, the ship capsized and later sank by the stern. The victim was HMS Welshman (M 84) (Capt W.H.D. Friedberger, DSO, RN) which sank 35 miles east-northeast off Tobruk, Libya. Nine officers and 139 ratings were lost, also an unknown number of military passengers (among them four aircrew members that had been badly burnt in a plane crash on Malta). Only a few survivors were rescued. Note; A survivor’s account records that the ship sank at approximately 21:00hrs.and of some 300 people on board, over 150 died.

Page 45 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Nudd

George Edward

Able Seaman

MV Harboe Jenson Royal Navy

George Edward Nudd. Son of Abner and Ethel H. Z. Nudd, of Hickling. Able Seaman C/JX 334105 George Edward Nudd, killed in action 15th January 1943, aged 31. Commemorated: Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent. George was lost whilst serving aboard M.V. Harboe Jenson, Royal Navy, when whilst ferrying war materials for Montgomery’s 8th army from Benghazi to Tobruk, she was torpedoed off Tobruk. William McGill was one of only six survivors, being blown clear when the torpedo struck. Only moments before, William McGill had relieved George at a gun on the upper deck. George’s last words were “Have you got a fag Bill?”, and at that moment (23:30) the explosion occurred. William McGill was blown clear and later found “without a stitch and covered in oil”. He was almost missed in the dark. Before joining the Navy, George took part in the construction of Ludham Airfield.

See the addendum at the rear of this book for a survivor’s account of his life aboard M.V. Harboe Jenson, including the day she was sunk and George died.

Page 46 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Tuck

Hubert L

Pte

1st Bn. East Surrey Regiment

Hubert Lawrence Tuck. Son of Hubert George and May Violet Tuck, of Hickling. Private 5777889 Hubert Lawrence Tuck, died 1st December 1943, aged 24. Buried / Commemorated: Sangro River War Cemetery, Italy.

Page 47 Hickling Local History Group

Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Findlay

James

Serjeant

Royal Artillery, Durham Light Infantry

James Findlay, husband of Winifred Joan Findlay. Son of James and Helen Findlay, of Hickling, Norfolk. Serjeant 2880635 James Findlay, died 11th July, 1944, aged 22. Buried / Commemorated: Hermanville War Cemetery, Calvados, France.

Page 48 Hickling Local History Group

“THEY ALSO SERVED”

This section commemorates the men and women of Hickling who served in His Majesty’s armed services and who returned home, in some cases after suffering terrible wounds and in many instances suffering the privations of armed conflict and even being held prisoner.

Hickling Local History Group

WW I Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Beales

Waldo

Cpl.

1st Battalion Norfolk regiment

Waldo Wellington Athelstan Beales, the tenth child of George and Annie Beales, born in 1896 at the Pleasure Boat Inn, Hickling which was kept by his parents from 1880 until 1911. Waldo attended the village school and joined up at a recruitment meeting held in the village in 1914 at the age of 17. After an unfortunate incident and a period of isolation in a field hospital in Étaples, he was moved south to join the 1st Battalion of the Norfolk regiment at the Somme near Guillemont. It was here during the Battle of the Somme that he was seriously injured in both legs. After three weeks, he was repatriated to a hospital in the north of England. His injuries were so severe that he was unable to return to the front and after a period of convalescence he was discharged and returned home. Waldo went on to own the village garage and ran a small boatyard by the Staithe. During WWII he drove the ambulance here in the village. He died in 1985.

Waldo later wrote an account of his time during WW1 and this was published by the Hickling Local History Group in 2006 with the permission of his daughter Mrs. P. Deane, who still lives in the village. (See copy in H.L.H.G Archives)

Hickling Local History Group

WW I Surname

Christian Name

Chapman

Wilfred Cubitt

Rank

Served with

R.N.

Wilfred Cubitt Chapman. Son of Jethro & Hannah Chapman, of Hickling, one of twelve children. Wilfred had a distinguished naval career. In the First World War he was wounded in the Heligoland Bight battle. He transferred to the Royal Naval Air Service as an observer, and also served as a balloon observer. Later he went to the French Chasseur Alpine Regiment, and was awarded the Croix de Guerre with palm and diploma, the equivalent of two bars. With this regiment he was in the retreat from Antwerp, the battle of Nieuport, and at Neuve Chappelle. Again wounded, he returned to England and was placed in command of H.M.S. Princess Margaret, a minelayer. He later received the D.C.M. Then he went to H.M.S. Vindictive, and was in the St. George’s Day attack on Zeebrugge. He was mentioned in dispatches three times. After the war, he served as prison officer at Winchester naval prison, as an instructor at the officers’ cadet school, and with the Admiralty Shore Signal Service. He joined the Coast Guard in 1935, and became deputy district officer at Yarmouth, then station officer at Gorleston, retiring in December, 1946. Wilfred married and had two sons and two daughters. When he died in 1958 at the age of 73, he was living at Yarmouth Coastguard Station. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, December 1916: “It is a great pleasure to announce that Wilfred Chapman, leading signalman, R.N., H.M.S. Princess Margaret, has been twice mentioned in despatches, and has been awarded the D.C.M. for gallant conduct and devotion to duty. We offer him the heartiest congratulations. He is one of seven brothers, and their record is a fine one. Mr. and Mrs. Jethro Chapman have every reason to be proud of their sons.” and in July 1918, he writes; “The other good news is that the Croix de Guerre has been awarded to Wilfred Chapman, yeoman of Signals, R.N. He has already gained the D.S.M., and been twice mentioned in despatches. We are very proud of his record: he comes of a real sea-faring family, and he heads our list of war honours gained in this war. We congratulate him most heartily, and wish him much further success in his profession.”

Hickling Local History Group

WW I Surname

Christian Name

Chase

Charles Frederick

Rank

Served with

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Chase; sister Birdie. The family lived at Bay Farm (now Bay Cottage). When the parents died the brother and sister carried on at the farm, neither of them marrying. Both were fond of children, and William Lambert recalls (at about 7 or 8 years of age) going to the farm and helping with the chores, feeding chickens and bullocks, hunting for eggs, feeding the pigs. Charlie committed suicide in 1930, and it was then revealed that he had been for a long time in World War One in France and Belgium, had experienced much carnage and bloodshed, and been wounded. This played on his mind, and although he showed no outward sign of derangement, he eventually ended his life. Even people close to him had not known of the terrible conditions he endured. He was buried in St. Mary’s churchyard 8th August 1930, aged 38. There is no memorial stone.

Hickling Local History Group

WW I & WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Crosse

Arthur John Green

Captain

Royal Norfolk Regiment

(WW I)

(WW II)

Federated Malay States Volunteer Force

ARTHUR JOHN GREEN (JACK), born 1896, son of Reverend Arthur Adam Taylor (vicar of St. Mary’s church) and Edith Rose Crosse. There were seven children, all born and raised in Hickling. Jack was probably named after his great-grandfather, John Green Crosse, who was an eminent Norwich surgeon. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines October 1914: “Men serving with His Majesty’s Forces in England – Thomas William Johnson, 3rd Norfolks; Frank Norman Platten, 5th Norfolks; William Gibbs, 4th Norfolks; Vere Herbert Smith, 2nd Lieutenant, 5th Battalion Rifle Brigade; Arthur John Green Crosse, Public School Corps; William R. Gibbs, Lord Kitchener’s army.” in June 1916 he writes: “2nd Lieutenant A. J. G. Crosse, who is command of the Machine Gun Section of the 9th Norfolks in Flanders, has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant, under date August 28th, 1915.” in February 1917: “The Military Cross has been awarded to Lieut. A. J. G. Crosse for conspicuous gallantry in action.” and in October 1917: “Captain A. J. G. Crosse, M.C., 9th Norfolks, has been awarded a bar to the Military Cross, for conspicuous gallantry in action and devotion to duty.” After the First World War, Jack was a rubber-planter in Malaya, and joined the Federated Malay States Volunteer Force. At the fall of Singapore in W.W.2. he was taken prisoner, sent to Chungkai, and subsequently to the Burma Railway. He survived, but was with his brother Ned when Ned died. Jack returned to run his plantation all through the Malayan Emergency (Communist native insurgency), when others would not stay. On one of his home leaves in England, he met his future wife, June. After their marriage, they lived partly in Malaya and partly in England until Jack died. June then returned to live in England.

Hickling Local History Group

WW I & WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Crosse

Edward Castellain

2nd Lieutenant (WW I)

Royal Norfolk Regiment

Captain (WW II)

Federated Malay States Volunteer Force

EDWARD CASTELLAIN (NED), born 1897, son of Reverend Arthur Adam Taylor (vicar of St. Mary’s church) and Edith Rose Crosse. There were seven children, all born and raised in Hickling. The name Castellain crops up in the Waxham and Happing Rural Deanery Magazines, and it may be that he was named after a godparent. An entry for April 1893 reads: “At the same time, Mrs. Castellain presented to the church some very handsome flowered damask curtains for the East end, and within the last month I have received from the same kind friend two handsome brass flower vases for the Communion Table.” Ned served in W.W.I. He was at the battle of the Somme (near Guillemont) in 1916, where he led a platoon of the Norfolk Regiment “over the top”. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, February 1917: “2nd-Lieut. E. C. Cross and Private Richard Futter have been mentioned in despatches for distinguished and gallant services and devotion to duty.” After the war, Ned went to Malaya to join his brother Jack, rubber planting. In the Second World War, he was a Captain in the Johore Volunteer Engineers (Service Number 152), Federated Malay States Volunteer Force. He was taken prisoner by the Japanese, sent to the infamous Burma Railway, and died in Chungkai camp, 17th December, 1942, aged 45. His brother Jack was with him. He is buried / commemorated at Chungkai War Cemetery.

Hickling Local History Group

WW I & WW II Surname

Christian Name

Crosse

William Alan Ferguson

Rank

Served with

Royal Flying Corps. (WW I)

Royal Ulster Rifles. (WW II) Inniskilling Dragoon Guards.

WILLIAM ALAN FERGUSON (BILLY), born 3rd July, 1900, son of Reverend Arthur Adam Taylor (vicar of St. Mary’s church) and Edith Rose Crosse. There were seven children, all born and raised in Hickling. St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, November, 1917: “W. A. F. Crosse has joined the Boys’ Section of the Royal Flying Corps, and is in training at the Technical School of Instruction, in Halton Park, near Tring, Bucks.” He spent the First World War in service with the Royal Flying Corps. After the First World War, Billy spent some time rubber planting with his brothers in Malaya, and rejoined the army at the start of World War Two, - the Royal Ulster Rifles, then the Inniskilling Dragoon Guards (Cavalry Regiment), from then on making his career in the Army. In 1938 he married Jean Leslie Penwill and they had one child - a son, John, now living in Yorkshire. His penultimate post in the army was as Commandant of a P.O.W. camp at P’anmunjom (on the border of North and South Korea), in the 1950s. From Korea he transferred to his last post at a British Army Leave Centre in Austria. At this centre in Ehrwald in the Tyrol, Billy trained soldiers in downhill ski-ing. He also met Liselotte, who became his second wife. They stayed in Austria after Billy retired from the army, taking over the vacated Army Leave Centre to provide tourist accommodation, and to promote Tourism in the Tyrol. They lived in Innsbruck, where Billy died in 1982, and where Liselotte still lives (2008).

Hickling Local History Group

WW I Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Markin

George Harry

Private

Gloucester Regiment

George Harry Markin, born 1895, son of Charles Henry and Kate Ellen Markin, of The Green, Hickling, (the property now known as Black Horse Cottage). Harry was the only son, and a butcher in the family business, which was run by his father until his death in 1902. Charles and Kate had three other children, daughters Kathleen Eva (died in infancy); Hilda; and Katy Iris, who married a Hickling man, Waldo Beales. Harry was educated firstly at Stalham Green; then at Edward Worledge School at Gorleston. When he left school, he joined his mother in running the family butcher’s shop at The Green. Two days after war was declared, he joined the Gloucester Regiment and fought in the Battle of the Somme where he was taken prisoner. After the war he returned home and continued to assist his mother in the family business. Harry had suffered terribly during the war (shell shock) and also during his subsequent captivity. For the remainder of his life he continued to suffer the after effects of his war service. “He was not a well man” his family tell us. He died on the 31st of January 1982 aged 87 and is buried in Hickling churchyard.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, July, 1918: “We have also two more items of good news to chronicle. The first is that Private Harry Markin, of the Gloucester Regiment, who was reported as missing, is now reported to be a prisoner of war in Germany - wounded, but doing quite well. We are very glad for his sake, and the sake of his mother and sisters, that he is alive and well. He is a fine boy, and we hope that he will come through all his troubles safe and sound.”

Private Harry Markin - Aged 19

Hickling Local History Group

WW I Surname

Christian Name

Nudd

Alfred

Rank

Served with

Royal Fusiliers.

Alfred “Mate” Nudd served in WW1 with the Royal Fusiliers. He was born in a cottage on Hill Common in Hickling, the youngest of a family of twelve. He worked on the wherries, and as a reed cutter. He never married, went blind in later life, and lived in a hut in a field off Hill Common, making his way by instinct to the Pleasure Boat Inn in the evenings.

Alfred “Mate” Nudd Here (left) on his 86th birthday in 1981, with his nephew Stanley Nudd, in front of his home, a wooden shed 8ft by 6ft at Hill Common.

Hickling Local History Group

WW I Surname

Christian Name

Herbert Smith

Aubrey

Rank

Served with

Aubrey Herbert Smith, a son of Norman and Christine Louise, of 107 Ashley Gardens, Westminster, London. The Herbert Smiths, whilst listed as living in London, spent much time in Hickling, and were staunch supporters of the church. Aubrey served with H.M. forces in WW1. His brother Vere was killed in the war, and is commemorated in St. Mary’s church. There were other siblings, and the family came to Hickling for holidays, becoming great friends with the Crosses. They owned various properties in Hickling and it is known that in later life Aubrey lived at The Smea.

St. Mary’s vicar, Arthur Adam Taylor Crosse, writes in the Waxham Deanery Magazines, July, 1915: “It is pleasant to hear that good news has been received of Mr. Aubery (Aubrey) Herbert Smith, from the internment camp at Ruhlebru near Berlin. He is in good health, and as comfortable as can be expected under the necessarily trying circumstances of such a life. We hope that his good British pluck and a fine constitution will enable him to win through to the day of liberation.”

and in July 1918: “We are very glad to hear that Mr. Aubrey Herbert Smith, who has been a prisoner of war in Germany since the beginning of the war, has been transferred to Holland to be interned there. We congratulate him and his parents on this happy change. He is in good health, and his pluck and grit have stood him in good stead during a long and weary time of imprisonment and hardship.”

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Amiss

Bernard

Signalman

Served with

Royal Navy

Bernard Amiss, born the 21st of March 1923, the last of twelve children born to Caroline and Edward Amiss. Bernard (Barney) attended Hickling School where amongst his other attributes, he was an accomplished sportsman, a member of the school team that, in 1935/6, won the Stalham area football league. In 1948, Bernard was amongst the Hickling team that won the East Norfolk Village Football League. After leaving school he went to work on a fishing boat as a cook. Then when war was declared, Bernard joined the Royal Navy and became a Signalman and after the war went on to serve in Minesweepers. During his service he was awarded several medals: The Atlantic Star; The Italy Star; The Oakleaf; The Battle of Britain Star; The Minesweeping Medal and The Veterans Medal. During the war he met a young Sofia Loren and had a picture to prove it! Also during the war he ended up with a damaged ear, not from the war but from being rounded up by the French police. Barney’s story was that as they beat him with their batons, he kept calling for mercy and they kept hitting him all the more, because they thought he was saying thank you. After the war he met Madge in Newcastle and they were married on the 2nd of September 1949. Not only did he gain a wife but two lovely step daughters Alma and Willamena. His main hobby was gardening, in particular his vegetable plot and really liked his early potatoes and cut flowers. Madge and Barney enjoyed a night out at the pub, but on their bike rides home from the pub, he said he was in more danger than during the war as he often finished up in the hedge or a ditch. Barney died just one day short of his 85th birthday. He leaves three grandchildren: Scott, Adam and Michelle, he also leaves several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great great nieces.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Bishop

Edward W.

Seaman / Gunner

HMS Sulla

Edward (Ted) Bishop served his country as a Seaman / Gunner in the Navy. Whilst aboard HMS Sulla he received a telegram informing him of the birth of his daughter, Pauline. Pauline was educated at Hickling School, later married Terry Brooks, had three daughters and lived here in the village until September 2006. Ted Bishop survived the war and lived here in the village; he died in 1986. HMS Sulla was lost in 1942 on one of the infamous Arctic Convoys. Fortunately he transferred from her before she sank in March 1942. HMS Sulla - Extract from official records: 1940 the Norwegian whaler Sulla was requisitioned by the Royal Navy and converted to an auxiliary minesweeper. At 10.36 hours on 30 Mar, 1942, U-456 (Max-Martin Teichert) attacked a straggler from convoy PQ13 (Reykjavik – Murmansk) and observed one torpedo hit after 55 seconds, after which the ship was seen to be listing. The XB-Dienst reported this ship as the Hondurian steam tanker Mana (3283 grt), but this ship was not damaged. The victim could have been HMS Sulla, which had been part of the convoy escort on transfer to the Soviet Northern Fleet. The auxiliary minesweeper was reported missing in the Barents Sea near Bear Island since 25 March, but it is also possible that she was lost in the heavy weather that scattered the convoy around this date.

Telegram received whilst aboard HMS Sulla, informing Ted of the birth of his daughter, Pauline.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Chapman

Herbert Tommy

Rank

Served with

Medical Corps.

Tommy (as he was known) was the son of Ambrose and Alice Chapman, who lived in various properties around the Doves Corner part of Hickling. His brother Ambrose also served in the war, was killed, and is commemorated in Part One of this book. Tommy’s daughter, Jennifer Goldsmith, kindly provided this photograph, but tells us that her father was a very private sort of man, who didn’t talk much about his time during the war. She believes he served most of his time in India. He met his wife in London during the war (she was also in the army). They married after the war and Jennifer was born in 1948; she also had a brother. Tommy was a bank clerk in Stalham. They moved to Norwich when Jennifer was about three years old, but visited Hickling regularly to see his mother, Alice, and his uncle Herbert. The family emigrated to Canada in December 1957.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Gibbs

Jack Edward

Private

Royal Berkshire Regiment, formerly The Norfolk Regt.

Jack Edward Gibbs (Huggie) was born in Hickling, and brought up by his grandfather and grandmother, John (Huggie) and Elizabeth Gibbs, who lived in a cottage in Martin’s yard, off The Street. Before the war he was a bricklayer working for the Lamberts in Hickling. He married Rosina Alice King (Rosie) of Winterton on 16.11.1940. They had one son, Ronald Jack Gibbs (also known as Huggie). He served the first part of the war in England, delivering supplies to ships and boats, including those at Southampton destined for the D day landings. He was granted embarkation leave at the time of the landings, as shortly afterwards, he was sent to Burma, where he was transferred to the Royal Berkshire Regiment. Shot by sniper, survived “multiple gunshot wounds to head & arm”, 12th of March 1945. “Indian Theatre of war, Burma” Whilst in Singapore, he met another “Hickling Boy”, John Mason. John is reputed to have been with Jack when he was shot. After the war, he was unable to work due to the severity of his wounds.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Lambert

Arthur

Rank

Served with

R.A.F.

ARTHUR (NOBBY) LAMBERT. Born in Hickling 13th July 1921, Arthur was one of eleven children born to Frederick William Joshua and Beatrice Ann Lambert. He had a twin brother, Gilbert (Gilly), and his other siblings were: William Benjamin; Muriel Dorothy (at the time of writing, April 2007 still residing in Hickling); Raymond Cecil (John); Molly; Nancy Valentine; Kathleen Mabel; Derrick Jack; Mary; Peter Frederick. Arthur worked on local farms after leaving Hickling School. He joined the R.A.F. during the war; trained at Skegness as a lorry driver delivering ammunition - some of his trips were to Ludham Airfield. After a time he was compulsorily transferred to the Royal Armoured Corps, (spending some time at Barnard Castle) and saw service in the Far East, Malaya and Burma. He was moved from Bombay (Bren Gun Carriers) to Pune (Poona), then Singapore. Whilst with his company in Singapore, he tells of being out on patrol, looking down a valley, and seeing a tree move. This turned out to be the entrance to a secret airfield – the occupiers surrendered quietly. From Singapore he came home to be demobbed. After the war he worked with civil engineering firms as a labourer or heavy plant driver, obtaining employment in the same line of work with Norfolk County Council at about age 50. He and his wife Doris live in Sea Palling, and have no children (2007).

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Lambert

Muriel

LACW

W.A.A.F. Medical Corps

Muriel is the daughter of Fred and Beatrice Lambert, born in Stubb Road, Hickling. She worked in Great Yarmouth as a children’s nanny, living in with the family; at the outbreak of war the family moved to North Burlingham, taking Muriel with them. She had to register for service on her 21st birthday in 1940, and in September 1940, she was called up. She wanted to go into the WRENs, but it wasn’t a WRENs day that day, and she was placed in the WAAF. She was stationed first at Bridgenorth in Shropshire for six weeks foot-bashing (Mirrie’s term), then at Worcester, then Kidlington in Oxford, which was a glider station. She became a leading aircraftswoman in the Medical Corps, and was demobilised at the end of the war. She now (2006) lives in The Street, Hickling.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Lambert

Raymond Cecil

Rank

Served with

Royal Norfolk Regiment

Raymond Cecil (John) Lambert: Born 21st May 1919, one of eleven children of Frederick William Joshua and Beatrice Ann Lambert. With his cousin Arthur Nobbs, John was one of the earliest to leave Hickling, being called up a few months before the beginning of the Second World War, on general mobilisation. He was sent to France, was there when it capitulated, and faced a 250 miles march to Cherbourg (half of his company aimed for Dunkirk). At Cherbourg he boarded a vessel to England. He wore his boots out and somehow finished up with one brown and one black shoe. It caused some amusement when he first went to his local pub. He also lost all of his equipment, rifle, and everything. The authorities tried to charge him for it. After a spell of leave, he was stationed at Southfield, Driffield, then at Huddersfield, where he volunteered to serve as a gunner with the Maritime Artillery, D.E.M.S. (Defensibly Equipped Merchant Ships). He served two years based in Sicily. He was also on the North Atlantic run. One trip to Canada was to deliver German P.O.W.s. He also went to Argentine for three months where he saw the hulk of the battleship “Graf Spey”. Back in Europe, he took part in the invasion landings, North Africa, Italy and D Day. Then he was sent to Germany, where he saw the horrors of the Belsen concentration camps. Following that, he came home to be demobbed. After the war, he returned to farm work, and married Daphne Stone. They had one daughter, Anita. He left farm work for employment with the Highways Department of Norwich Corporation, and remained with them until his retirement in 1984.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Lambert

William Benjamin

Flt. Sergeant

R.A.F.

WILLIAM BENJAMIN LAMBERT. Born in Hickling 19th May 1916, William was the eldest child of Frederick William Joshua and Beatrice Ann Lambert. He had ten siblings: Muriel Dorothy (at the time of writing, April 2007 still residing in Hickling); Raymond Cecil (John); twins Arthur (Nobby) and Gilbert (Gilly); Molly; Nancy Valentine; Kathleen Mabel; Derrick Jack; Mary; Peter Frederick. William attended Hickling school from the age of five, leaving at age fourteen to work for Mr. Lionel Borrett at Hall Farm as a yard boy. He worked for Mr. Borrett until 1935, when he joined the Royal Air Force, signing on for eight years, and being given 2 shillings (a moderate increase on the King’s Shilling). He also received his service number 526691. Initial training was given at Uxbridge and Orpington, and William chose to take further training to become a storekeeper. He was posted to R.A.F. Station Hawkinge, near Folkestone, Kent, then to Cranwell, still under training, and at Cranwell became Aircraftsman 2nd Class Storekeeper. Further posting to Wyton, Huntingdonshire. In January 1938, he was warned for overseas service, and allowed home on two weeks leave. Sailed from Southampton 28th March 1938 for Egypt, and onwards transportation to R.A.F. Station Ramleh, Palestine. Whilst there promoted to Corporal; left there in 1941, posted to Aqir, promoted there to Sergeant; became ill (infectious Hepatitis) and after hospitalisation and a thirteen week stay in a transit camp at Kasfriet, was finally shipped home from Port Suez arriving in the river Clyde six weeks later, 28th March, 1943. After home leave, posted to Retford, Nottinghamshire, where he met his wife Joyce, whom he married in 1944. Further postings to R.A.F. Station Odiham, Hants, and Bassingbourne, Herts. Left the service on 5th January 1946. In civilian life, William worked as clerk for the London and North Eastern Railway Company at Ranskill, then in 1951 as accounts clerk for the Worksop and Retford Hospital Management Committee at Kilton Hospital. He stayed with them until his retirement in 1981, then staying on in a part-time capacity until 1983. William and Joyce had one son, Geoffrey Arthur, born at Kilton Hospital 17th December, 1950.

Picture of William, aged 24. Taken in Tel-Aviv (Palestine) July 1939

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Mason

John

Private

Northamptonshire Regiment, formerly Norfolk Regt.

John lived at Sutton Road Hickling, with his wife Dawn Mason, (now living in Stalham). Son of John and Beatrice Mason of Eastfield Road Hickling. Worked as Farm Labourer for Jack Borrett at Eastfield Farm, and then later at a farm on Sutton Road. Served in Burma and was awarded The Burma Star. Whilst on leave in Singapore, he “Bumped” into another Hickling lad, Jack Gibbs, and is reputed to have been with Jack when he was severely injured, shot in the head and arm, by a sniper.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Nobbs

Arthur Frederick

Rank

Served with

Royal Norfolk Regiment

Arthur was the son of Ernest and Gertrude Nobbs, of “Conifers”, Town Street, Hickling, the house to which the family came from Northwood, Middlesex, when his father was retired from the Post Office, owing to ill health. Arthur, together with his cousin Raymond Cecil Lambert, was called up for war service in 1939. He served with the Royal Norfolk Regiment, and was taken prisoner by the Japanese at the fall of Singapore. He did survive the war, but due to the brutal treatment at the hands of his captors, his health was broken. He couldn’t work, and died in 1955. He is buried in St. Mary’s churchyard, with nothing to mark his grave (by his own request). He wanted no fuss. His cousins tend his grave.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Rank

Served with

Piggin

Edward

Petty Officer

R.N.

Edward (Ted) Piggin, son of Ted Piggin, one-time warden of Hickling Nature Reserve. Brother to Kathleen & Hilda. They lived in a house on Stubb Road that was on the site of the now warden’s house at Hickling Nature Reserve. Their original house was demolished some years ago now, and the new wardens house built on the site. His ship took soldiers across the channel to Normandy. The ship was hit, and Ted came home on survival leave in July 1944.

Hickling Local History Group

WW II Surname

Christian Name

Piggin

Hilda

Rank

Served with

W.A.A.F.

Hilda Piggin, daughter of Ted Piggin, one-time warden of Hickling Nature Reserve. Elder sister to Kathleen & Ted. They lived in a house on Stubb Road that was on the site of the now warden’s house at Hickling Nature Reserve. Their original house was demolished some years ago now, and the new warden’s house built on the site. Hilda served with the RAF in Scotland working with Barrage Balloons.

Hickling Local History Group

More Survivors of World War One The following Hickling men also survived the war, and their stories will be told as and when the information becomes available and time permits. SURNAME

FIRST NAMES

RANK

REGIMENT - SHIP etc

SERVICE

Amiss

Edward

Applegate

Thomas

Applegate

Thomas Junior

Beales

Clarence

Beales

Andrew

Beales

Charlie

Bishop

Frank Harold

Bishop

Robert

Bishop

Frank

Bowes

Robert

Norfolk Regiment

Brooks

Robert

Norfolk Regiment

Army

Bunn

Frank Leonard

Army Ordnance Corps

Army

Cator

James

Chapman

Oliver Lionel

Grand Fleet

Royal Navy

Chapman

George Adam

Master at Arms

Grand Fleet

Royal Navy

Clark

Frederick

Gunner

Disney

Alec

Futter

Richard

Gibbs

Herbert Edward

Grand Fleet

Royal Navy

Gibbs

William R.

Lord Kitchener’s Army

Gibbs

Herbert

H.M.S. Cornwallis

Royal Navy

Johnson

Thomas William

3rd Norfolks

Army

Mason

Robert

Monsey

Ernest

Myhill

Oliver

Neal

George Raymond

Newman

Ernest

Grand Fleet, minesweeper

Royal Navy

Nicholls

Walter

Nudd

Walter

Grand Fleet

Royal Navy

Royal Artillery

Army

Private

Hickling Local History Group

SURNAME

FIRST NAMES

RANK

REGIMENT

SERVICE

- SHIP etc Nudd

Reggie

Platten

Frank Norman

Sloper

Edward

Tillett

Alfred Edward

Turner

James

Turner

5th Norfolks

Army

Veterinary Corps

Army

Arthur

Northamptonshire Regiment, machine gun section

Army

Wallis

Walter

Motor Transport Service

Army

Woodrow

John

Grand Fleet

Royal Navy

minesweeper Wright

Harry

Hickling Local History Group

More Survivors of World War Two The following Hickling men and women also survived the war, and their stories will be told as and when the information becomes available and time permits. SURNAME

FIRST NAMES

Beales

Arthur

Myhill

William (Bronco)

Adapted for viewing on the Internet by; AC/HC - August 2009 Hickling History: Email; [email protected]

RANK

REGIMENT - SHIP etc

SERVICE Navy ?

Hickling Local History Group