REFLECTIONS

The 1911 census lists Widecombe’s population of 884 of whom about 200 were males eligible to serve in the 1914-18 War. About 50% enlisted or were conscripted. This Book reveals the wide span of different roles undertaken to satisfy the diverse defence needs. The number who served as sailors is a surprise, but stringy, stocky lads, used to hard, physical mucking out and pitching bales, made light work of stoking coal into battleships’ boilers. Vast experience of working with horses was also a useful skill causing a blind eye to be turned to the age of one volunteer. The patriotism of the Widecombe community is evident.

While remembering those who served, tribute must be paid to those who remained at home. Farms still had to be with increased demands for productivity to overcome the U boat blockade straining those who remained to feed the Nation. The Army’s requisition of many horses placed an additional burden on the farming community. Wives, children and girlfriends received scant news from their menfolk and only a notification from the War Department if they were hospitalised or died.; the anxiety, worries and fear must have been hard to bear. The grief and suffering didn’t end at the Armistice on 11th November 1918. Most families were not reunited until mid - 1919 to rejoicing and heartbreak as families and communities rebuilt lives and ministered to those mentally and physically scarred by horrendous experiences. It was Widecombe’s close knit and community that bore the brunt of helping the Servicemen to recover. Widecombe villagers, who did not serve with the Armed Forces contributed voluntarily to the war effort in many ways. Sphagnum moss was collected, cleaned, dried and packaged for use as wound dressings, which was acknowledge in 1920 by the presentation of a 15” shell, still on view outside of Church House. There were many other contributions; socks, sweaters and scarves were knitted for the troops, donations were collected from many charitable causes; and children gathered conkers for explosive factories. The War was a national effort affecting everyone. We should reflect on their contribution and bravery as well as those who served in the Armed Forces.

It is difficult for us to imagine the impact of the War on Widecombe’s parishioners; the Roll of Honour Book helps us to understand the sacrifices made during the War as we reflect on the hardships of the past faced by those who served and those who supported them.

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Tony Clark OBE, The Parachute Regiment.

1 August 2018.

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