Unveiling of a Memorial Stone

Unfortunately, on August 22nd, 1942, Ramsey was bombed, and 8 civilians were killed. Their bodies were subsequently laid out in the chapels. All of those killed were engaged in the war effort in some way. Some were A.R.P (Air Raid Precautions) wardens and fire watchers, others busy raising funds to be used to keep the moral of our troops up.

As the 75th Anniversary of their death’s approaches, it is only fitting that they too be remembered.

The Friends of Ramsey Mortuary Chapels have had a memorial made in their honour. On the 10th of June 2017 the Memorial Stone was unveiled with all the names of those who were killed; Ruby Joan Rosher Bell, Hector Lewis Campbell, Ada Crump, Charles Crump, Ethel Mary Ingle, Wilfred Tatt, Gwendolyn Mary Worlock and Emma Cross who died of her injuries a few days later.

The memorial to the civilians, has been placed, just inside the archway between the chapels on the left-hand outside wall. This was the chapel that became Ramsey's Mortuary in WWII and where the bodies of those unfortunately killed were laid out prior to interment.

The Community Payback team have been searching for the graves of the civilians that were killed in the bombing and so far, 2 have been found under mounds of brambles and weeds, these have now been cleared. When they have all been located it is our intention to have their headstones restored and kept in the same condition as the war graves in the cemetery.

We are indebted to Derek Lines of Swearers Funeral Services who provided the stone for the memorial and who also erected it for us. Also, Mark Oliver of Fenland Stonemasons Ltd, Yaxley, who carved the inscription. Both of whom insisted on doing everything free of charge as their contribution. Thank you both so much.

I must also thank the Reverend, Canon Richard Darmody for a short service of dedication, Ramsey's Mayor, Doug McIlwain for laying a wreath on behalf of the Ramsey Town Council, the Deputy Mayor, Adela Costello for unveiling the memorial and not forgetting Amanda Hindshaw of "Flowers By…." who provided the beautiful wreaths.

Jane Yardley – Chair, Ramsey Mortuary Chapels