Ryde Social Heritage Group research the social history of the citizens of Ryde, Isle of Wight. Documenting their lives, businesses and burial transcriptions.
RYDE SOCIAL HERITAGE GROUP
Based at Ryde Cemetery Heritage & Learning Centre. Preserving, documenting and promoting the social history of Ryde on the Isle of Wight.
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Presentation to Chief Officer 1919

Ryde Coastguard Station

MR. JAMES WALKER, CHIEF OFFICER OF RYDE COASTGUARDS

A pleasing presentation took place on Friday, 27th June, in connection with the retirement of Mr. J. Walker, Chief Officer of the Ryde Coastguard, who on the 19th of June 1919 attained the 40th anniversary of his work in the service, nearly eight years of which he spent in charge of Ryde Coastguard.  Mr. and Mrs. Walker had a pleasant surprise when they were invited by the Acting Station officer, Mr. W. Hobbs, to the watchroom where the crew had mustered with their wives, those present including Dr. J. Pridmore, (Admiralty Surgeon and agent of the Ryde district), Mr. Taylor (secretary of the Ryde Pier Company), Mr. Fox (Corinthian Sailing Club), Mr. Williamson (Ryde Rowing Club), Mr. and Mrs. Hobbs, Messrs. Wetherall, Patey, and Banks.

Coastguard Cottages 2008

Mr. Hobbs presented Mr. Walker with a handsome case of pipes, tobacco pouch, and silver mounted walking stick and spoke of the very excellent relations which had always existed between the Chief Officer and the crew of the station and deplored his having to retire under the compulsory age clause but hoped Mr. Walker would live for a great many years to enjoy his well-earned rest.

Dr. Pridmore also spoke of the excellent relations which had always existed between Mr. Walker and himself since his appointment to the Ryde Coastguard District and especially commended Mrs. Walker for the way in which she had assisted him in many matters appertaining to his service duties in the absence of Mr. Walker during the whole of the war.  He wished the Chief Officer many years of happiness in his retirement and hoped Mrs. Walker would live for a great many years.

Messrs. Taylor, Fox and Williamson also tendered their best wishes and were glad to know Mr. and Mrs. Walker were remaining in Ryde. The proceedings throughout were of a most pleasant and cordial character.

More about Mr James Walker here
Notes:
The image 2008, was originally Ryde Coastguard Station, built as two blocks of two cottages back-to-back. Other buildings were added to the right (west), at a later date, one of which was the residence of the Chief Officer in charge.  The crew were housed close-by in Clay Lane and Nelson Lane.  The small aperture that can be seen at street level on the gable end of the front property, is believe to have been an original opening through which they could pass equipment and messages.  The Ryde Coastguard Station closed and the buildings were put up for sale in 1921  The cottages are now private residential.

Source: IW Observer
Images: Ann Barrett & Roy Brinton
Article: Ann Barrett