A HEARTFELT appeal to discover more about some of the brave Evesham men who gave their lives in the First World War has been issued.
Judith Smith would like information about five town men who lost their lives during the conflict ahead of a service for the community in November.
Together with members of the U3A, Judith and the members of St Peter’s Church in Bengeworth have spent the last four years painstakingly putting together information about 57 town men who had links with the parish.
Their research has led to small biographies being put together for 52 of the brave souls but despite their best efforts they are missing details for five town men.
The group would like any information on W Clarke, W Farman, AT Lewis, T Randall and a J Smith.
Judith told the Observer the group had pictures of the graves the men were buried in but hoped people would come forward to help them complete the roll of honour.
“It has been a real pleasure to find out more about these brave men, all who had a connection in someway to the parish.” Judith said.
“Some of the stories are heartbreaking, men who died during the conflict had only joined up two or three weeks before, it’s a reminder of their tremendous sacrifice.”
“If anyone has information I would be delighted to hear from them as we would love to have information on all 57 men to read during the service.” she added.
The names and details of the men will be read out during a service for the whole community called Bengeworth Reflects on November 14 at St Peter’s Church.
Poetry, choral singing and letters from the frontline will be read out during the evening which will also see students from Evesham High School and the Lygonian Singers take to the stage.
The Last Post will also be sounded and members of the Evesham Royal British Legion have been invited to attend.
Anyone with information on the men mentioned above is asked to call Judith on 01386 765284.
* WORK has begun on raising the height of the path and replacing the old cracked stone paving at the town’s war memorial in Abbey Park.
The long-awaited revamp is being funded by Evesham Town Council, by New Homes Bonus funding from Wychavon District Council and by a small grant from the War Memorials Trust.
The work is expected to be finished next month.
