Bridlington author launches appeal to honour two local war heroes who won medals for their bravery

Prolific Bridlington based author Richard M Jones is appealing for help to honour two men awarded the George Medal during World War Two.
By Claudia Bowes
Published 25th Oct 2023, 12:38 BST
Updated 25th Oct 2023, 12:40 BST
The previous ceremony honoured Ernest Baker, a Bridlington war who saved lives during an air raid at the town's train station.The previous ceremony honoured Ernest Baker, a Bridlington war who saved lives during an air raid at the town's train station.
The previous ceremony honoured Ernest Baker, a Bridlington war who saved lives during an air raid at the town's train station.

Mr Jones has already successfully campaigned to honour Bridlington man Ernest Barker, a courageous ticket collector who was also awarded a George Medal.

Train operator Northern, alongside the Yorkshire Coast Community Rail Partnership helped fund a special blue plaque memorial and held a ceremonial unveiling in July of this year.

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Now Mr Jones is looking to memorialise two men from Hull, who were involved in the same life threatening event as Ernest Barker.

Bridlington station, scene of the air raid on July 11, 1940.Bridlington station, scene of the air raid on July 11, 1940.
Bridlington station, scene of the air raid on July 11, 1940.

Mr Jones said: “I have just been given permission to recognise the two Hull men who worked for LNER. They were awarded the George Medal for their efforts in the damage control at Bridlington station, during the air raid of July 11, 1940.

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“Arthur Harrison and George Whitehurst were awarded the bravery medal alongside that of Ernest Barker, who was honoured earlier this year on the anniversary of the bombing.

“After speaking to Northern Rail they have given me the go ahead to fundraise, so that we can place a plaque for the other two heroes.

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Mr Jones hopes to fundraise for two more plaques, similar to the one honouring Ernest Barker.Mr Jones hopes to fundraise for two more plaques, similar to the one honouring Ernest Barker.
Mr Jones hopes to fundraise for two more plaques, similar to the one honouring Ernest Barker.

“One plaque will cost £300, to have them on two separate plaques would be double that at £600.

“If anybody can fund this project and help remember these two heroic individuals and complete the story of this forgotten piece of history, please get in touch.

“Also if you (or know of anybody) who is related to Harrison or Whitehurst, please contact me so that we can make sure these guys are properly recorded in both plaques and in a book.

“Any information on these three people would be amazing.”

Those looking to help fund the memorial plaques, or have information on any of the three men mentioned, contact Richard M Jones at [email protected].

Related topics:Richard M JonesBridlingtonHull