about
Commissioned following an appeal for help from Mrs. M Kerr (nee Keen (now Woollven)) who knew little of her father, this website, sponsored by pcworkspace.net, was launched in 2005, published in memory of George Keen, George Leach, who along with others including the Home Guard, members of the Fire Service, and military personnel, attended to a burning munitions train in Tongham, Surrey on 22, 23 August 1940.
Nurses attended that night too – Mavis and Brian, daughter and son of George1, had earlier been placed with Dr. Barnardo's. Subsequent to her marriage in 1953, Mrs. Kerr spent many years in Scotland before returning to Surrey, and only more recently learned that She and Brian had a half-sister, Doris Elsie Marsden (nee Keen) 1924-1995, of Mitcham, Surrey, from George's marriage to Elsie Fuller in 1923. Sadly they never met, but Mavis has since been introduced to her father's grandson and great granddaughter. Siblings: It's thought also that George had at least four sisters, Florence, Daisy, Louisa, Selina, and one brother, Charles.
appeal
These pages include a signed colour photograph of George Keen3, Scoutmaster 9th Farnham (Tongham). The website sponsor would like to trace any other image or data relating to the events of 22, 23 August 1940 in Tongham, and in particular any information about, or photographs of, George Henry Leach. Please take the time to read the biography, email: info@pcworkspace.co.uk if you can perhaps help - Many thanks.
NB: A photograph of explosive debris was sent to me by email, but unfortunately was lost along with the sender's details - if that was you - please send it in again.
