It has been brought to my attention from a person researching his family history, about a man who lived in Sacriston and who was (or should have been ) a local hero. His name was William Edward Reay who served with the Royal Navy and was married to Daisy (nee Wilby). His parents where William and Elizabeth Ann Reay.

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William Edward Reay reached the rank of Petty Officer and had been awarded a DSM and a Croix de Guerre during World War Two.He was serving on the H.M.S Hood on the fateful day of May 24th 1941 when it was sunk by the Bismarck (a German war ship) resulting in the loss of 1,418 lives which included his own life.

H.M.S HOOD

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I would like to hear from anyone who is a descendant or who has more information about PO Reay as I believe the younger generation of our community and indeed myself would like to learn and remember with honour an Officer from our village who died fighting for his Country.

Below is an e-mail I have received from a relation of P O Reay I have read your site with interest, William Edward Reay (George) was my mums cousin. He did have the croix de guerre and DSM, one was from the Battle of Narvik. He was killed on the HMS Hood on the 24.5.44. He was married to Daisy and their daughter was born on the day the ship sank.His parents Billy and Lizzie lived first at 59 Hillside, Witton Gilbert and then at 22 West Parade Sacriston. My mum has a photo of George which I will scan and send. If I can help any more please get in touch Yours Judith Nicholson If you can help then please get in touchSend me an e-mail

Helen Britteon © (All rights reserved) 2001