Charles Connah in No.1 Signal Box"

London and North Western Signal Box, Connah's Quay

1960

My father Charles Connah born 1.10.1899 fought in France during the First World War and took part in battles at Arras and Buthune. During an advance on the battlefield to capture a few yards on the ground, he was hit and badly wounded in the leg. Medics wanted to amputate it but he wouldn't let them, his leg recovered though he did have to have an operation in 1939 for some shrapnel to be removed. He was presented with two medals for his service during the First World War and proudly wore them at every Remembrance Day.

When the war was over he returned to his job as a porter at Buckley Junction. He eventually became a Signalman and whilst working at a box in Wigan he once averted a major train disaster. Two of his colleagues were shunting an engine and they missed a vital stop signal and were in danger of plunging five feet at a junction. To avert a disaster he managed to reach some switching gear to prevent the engine being de-railed. As a result he was awarded a citation for saving lives through his swift action.

In 1938 he returned to work in Buckley working as a Signalman at Penyffordd, Connah's Quay and Shotton. He retired from the railway at the age of 65 and then worked at RAF Sealand until he was 72 years of age when he retired. He passed away in 1997.

He was a Sidesman at Buckley All Saint's Church for many years which is situated accross the road from his home in Lamb's Lane.

Author: Roberts, Sylvia

Charles Connah in No.1 Signal Box"

London and North Western Signal Box, Connah's Quay

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