War graves at St Stephen's in Fradley

More roads in Fradley are to be named after heroes from World War Two.

Lichfield District Council is searching for relatives of six men who served at RAF Lichfield to ask permission name the streets at the Hay End Lane development after them.

Those the roads could be named after include:

  • Sergeant Gilbert McAlister and Sergeant Ronald Sankey both from the Royal Australian Air Force,
  • Sergeant Alfred Brindle, Sergeant Howell Buckley and Sergeant Albert Ashwood who were royal Air Force Volunteers,
  • Tractor driver Arthur Salt, who worked at RAF Lichfield and was killed in an accident when a plane that was landing collided with him, making him the only civilian to be killed on the base during World War Two.

The suggested street names are McAlister Row, Sankey Grove, Brindle Lane, Buckley Croft, Ashwood Lane and Salt Way.

Councillor Chris Spruce, Cabinet member for finance and democracy for Lichfield District Council, said: “We are pleased that we are able to honour all of the men who are buried in Commonwealth war graves at St Stephen’s Churchyard by naming local streets after them. It is also fitting that we remember the other local men who died in the service of their country.

“As part of the process we need to give their relatives the opportunity to approve the use of the names. So, if you are a descendant of any of the men, please get in touch to tell us if you give your consent.”

Relatives are asked to contact Roberta Whittaker by calling 01543 308763 or emailing [email protected] by 5pm on February 9.

A seventh road, Middleton Drive, is set to be named after the late Councillor John Middleton to commemorate the length of service and his contribution as a district and parish councillor.

Cllr Spruce added: “Councillor Middleton was a leading member of the Fradley community and was committed to improving both his local area and the district. Naming a street after him shows how much public service is valued.”

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