AN APPEAL has gone out for information on former Newton Rigg College students lost in World War Two, as preparations have begun for dedicated memorial in its grounds.
The Newton Rigg Society vice president, John Rigg, has been tasked with the job of identifying, if possible, any former students who lost their lives in the 1939 to 1945 hostilities, so that their names can be added to the installation, which will be dedicated this October in the society's recently rejuvenated garden.
So far, only two names have been found, both of whom came to Newton Rigg from Keswick School – Lance Bombardier Jack Davidson, who did not return from Dunkirk, and was last seen manning a gun covering the retreat, and Flight Sergeant John Clark, who was reported missing on a raid over Germany.
Mr Rigg said that it was 'almost inevitable' that there would have been other former Newton Rigg students lost in the war, and hoped that by publicising his quest, others may be identified.
The plans so far are that the monument, being made by Cumbrian Stone, of Gilwilly Estate, Penrith, will be dedicated on Monday October 5 by the Chaplain to the Royal British Legion, the Bishop of Carlisle, the Right Reverend James Newcombe. It is hoped that many alumni and students past and present will be at this ceremony.
If anyone has any information at all, no matter how vague, please contact Mr Rigg on 01768 863137 or via email to john.lenmar@btinternet.com
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