A blue plaque dedicated to a hero from World War One has been unveiled in Bridlington.
The memorial plaque was officially unveiled at No. 40 Trinity Road, Bridlington, honouring Able Seaman William Becker.
Bridlington historian Richard Jones had researched the story of William Becker and having put out an appeal for more details he set about raising funds to dedicate a memorial.
Explained Richard: “On 6 December 1917, Becker was part of a group of sailors on board HMS Highflyer in Halifax harbour, Canada, that were sent over to lend assistance to a burning ship, the SS Mont Blanc, which had been in collision with another vessel.
“What nobody knew was that this ship was full of explosives and eventually the ship blew up with such force that it wiped out thousands of buildings across the town and killed 1700 people. Incredibly Becker survived, but he was the only one of his team that did.
“For his bravery he was awarded the Albert Medal, an equivalent of today’s George Medal, and he became only one of 568 people to ever be awarded this.
“Becker moved around East Yorkshire and spent the last five years of his life at 40 Trinity Road and after a short campaign of fundraising, the current owners of the house have very kindly given me permission to have him commemorated.”
“The support in projects like this always leaves me humbled by the generosity of the people as well as the words of kindness afterwards from those attending the ceremonies. Now William Becker will be remembered for the hero that he was, 55 years after his death.” added Richard.
The plaque was unveiled by Joanne as well as Martin Jolly, Chairman of Bridlington RNA with standard bearers Scott McKenzie and Martin Barmby.
