Just A Walk In The Sun with the Hereford Regiment Museum
A monthly podcast from the Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum. Hosted by Colonel Andy Taylor and Rev Paul Roberts. Stroll with us around the highways and byways of Herefordshire while we explore the story of the our regiment and county in war and peace. Special guests, featured items from the museum's collection and highlights from the lives of those who served from our beautiful county... and a pint or two as well!
Just A Walk In The Sun with the Hereford Regiment Museum
The Whittaker's lost son, Fownhope's Heart of Oak and other local history - a chat with Jane Davies
Join us this month as we chat with Preb Jane Davies, a Fownhope-born retired vicar who has unearthed the First World War stories of two great-uncles. Harry and Leonard Whittaker were sons of a Woolhope gamekeeper. Leonard emigrated to Australia just before the war and Harry joined the Herefordshire Regiment in September 1914. Both served overseas, Harry tragically dying of wounds at Gallipoli aged only 19.
Jane, Andy and Paul reflect on the conditions at Gallipoli, the impacts of losses on Herefordshire families and social relationships in village life. Leonard's Australian service papers are examined and a picture is built of his service - including winning a gallantry medal at the Battle of Messines Ridge in June 1917.
Jane shares stories of her upbringing in nearby Fownhope, a farmer's daughter - including the Heart of Oak Society of Fownhope and this friendly society's impact all aspects of the village.
For more information about the Operation Blackout - last mission of WW2 - at Hereford Town Hall on 17th May 2025 at 6.30pm, click here:
https://herefordshirelightinfantrymuseum.com/events/op-blackout-presentation/
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Theme Tune - The Lincolnshire Poacher, performed by the outstanding Haverhill Silver Band.
This podcast generously supported by the Army Museums Ogilby Trust.
