815381. Gunner W. Shapcott

A contact in France has a probable BEF kitbag bearing the above details.

Would anyone with access to the Royal Artillery Attestations be able to have a look-see for me ?

The only other marking is 1553 which may be a movement serial, but it's not accompanied by the usual coloured bars and I can't find the number in my lists of BEF serials.

Thanks in advance

 

Enlisted in 1930

 

Thanks Guy. Is the date not 9.9.34 ? Are there any clues to unit there ? I saw some closish numbers on CWGC and they were generally 26 / 27 years old in 1940.

 

Rich, he transferred to the army reserve on the 9.9.34. Unfortunately, he doesn't have a tracer card

 

I believe this is your man, unusual story attached. He was evacuated from Dunkirk.

William SHAPCOTT born Burnley, Lancashire 1Q 1914

Married Emily GOLDSWORTHY 1Q 1940 Burnley, Lancashire, two children born 1942 and 1945
The marriage certificate may contain information on his unit?

Possibly :

52nd (East Lancashire) Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery
Based in Burnley, Lancashire served in Belgium, France 1939-40


The Lynn News 18th November 1941

 

"to obtain beer, of which he was very fond."


Great find.

 

Beer tokens!

 

Thanks Guy. Incredible ! It seems then that after his release from prison, he would have gone back to the army and was discharged for medical reasons early in 1945...His service record would make good reading if unedited !

 

Rich, I have an address for William Shapcott jnr., which may be a little out of date but may be useful?
Marriage certificates vary in information, I've found full service number and unit listed but also just 'on war service'
I can't find a death entry for Shapcott senior?