Volunteers compile Bramley’s book of Remembrance

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A group of volunteers has produced a book of remembrance to remember Bramley’s fallen war heroes – and the first draft is now available online.

Members of the Friends of Bramley War Memorial group have been working hard to put together a book of remembrance to commemorate those who have fallen in conflicts over the years.

The book is 241 pages long and includes details of the 733 people from Bramley, Rodley and Stanningley who have died in service of their country between 1900 to 2011.

It will be displayed in a public place for all in the community to read.

Bramley War memorial.
Bramley War memorial. Photo: Roy Wilson

Volunteer John Barker, from Rodley, said:

“It’s taken us since a year last Easter to compile this – it was a massive chunk of work. We’ve got more than just names, we’ve also got their ages and date of death as well.

“I’m glad we’ve done it, the book ensures we’ll never forget all those who died while serving their country.

“The memorial is very much a feature for the whole community and is well respected. Our website gets a lot of hits. There’s an interest in what we’re doing and the brave young men will always be remembered.”

Currently there are 505 names on Bramley War Memorial – the additional 228 will be inscribed on to two new plaques which be unveiled at an Armistice Day service at the memorial on 11th November.

Mr Barker added:

“We would be pleased to receive any comments, amends or queries prior to producing final copies of the Book of Remembrance. A leather-bound copy will be placed in a public location for viewing, again for 11th November.”

If anyone would like a full PDF copy of the book, email bramleywm@aol.com. The book can also be viewed here.

The group also has a myriad of plans for the future, including re-printing a book about one of the founder members of the SAS, Major John Geoffrey Appleyard from Bramley. Appleyard was a second world war hero, son of Leeds garage owner John Appleyard.

His family’s memorial is in Bramley Baptist Church graveyard and rumour has it author Ian Fleming may have used Appleyard as a basis for his famous James Bond character.

A team of volunteers is uncovering war graves in Bramley Baptist Church
A team of volunteers is uncovering war graves at Bramley Baptist Church

A group of volunteers also continues to meet fortnightly in Bramley Baptist Church to clear away overgrown war graves.

Next clean up is on August 24 at 12.30pm and new helpers are always welcome.

The group has also had a shipping container donated to help store their strimming equipment.

And there are also plans for the group to produce an educational A5 booklet about those who have given their lives for their country.



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