A solider buried in Telford is to be given a new headstone despite locals being unable to trace any living relatives.
Dawley residents have uncovered an overgrown grave belonging to Fred Langford in St Luke’s Church, in Doseley. He is buried beside his wife Ethel and the search is now on for family of the couple.
Clive Blakeway, chairman of Shropshire War Memorial Association, requested a new headstone for Fred, but in normal circumstances one is not provided unless a relative is found. Despite none of Fred’s relatives being traced, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has decided to make an exception.
Mr Blakeway, said: “We found Langford’s grave and tidied it up.
“When I spoke to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission they said there must be a relative. We tried to find one, and while doing so they said they will get us one anyway. It is good news.”
Not much is know about Mr Langford but it is thought he served in World War I and II before being tragically killed in a road accident in 1939.
He was in the Wellington Platoon of the National Defence Company and was awarded medals which are said to be in a Shrewsbury museum.
Edna Hayhurst, from Dawley, has been tending to his grave and this week brought a poppy wreath for the decorated solider.
She said: “I went to help clear up his grave and clean the headstones and put a poppy wreath on it.
“I just want to see if there are any members of the family because I don’t want to be intrusive.”
A spokesperson for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, said: “We require the approval of the next of kin but in this instance it was important that something was done.
“The headstone has gone off to be manufactured in our offices in France.
“We want to make sure the memories are not forgotten.”
The new headstone is expected to arrive next year.
Mr Blakeway said: “It will be nice after all these years that somebody has shown an interest.”
If you have any information about Fred Langford then contact Edna Hayhurst on 01952 406704.
by Chrissy Symmons