Peterborough & The Great War

Biography

Sidney Samuel Riches was born in 1888 at Hales, Norfolk to parents John, a farm carpenter, and Georgianna.  The family soon moved to Rackhams Lane, Heckingham and Sidney was one of eight children, sadly three died at a young age.  In 1911, Sidney was employed as a blacksmith.

He attested on 26 April 1915,  into the Royal Engineers, aged 27 years 1 month and subsequently numbered WR286935.  WR indicates the Royal Engineers Light Railway Company responsible for operating trains in the battlefield.  The majority of these Companies were sent to Europe in the early months of 1917 and continued through to 1918. Visit www.1914-1918.net/lightrail.htm for info on RE Light Railway Companies.

Sidney passed through Peterborough East Station on 30 October 1916 and wrote in the visitors’ book “Many thanks for Comfort & refreshment of this place”.

Sidney married Sarah Jane Pugh in autumn 1917, in Norwich, Norfolk.  It might be reasonable to assume he married immediately before leaving for France.  He was awarded the British War and Allied Victory medals.

In March 1920, Sidney emigrated to Canada with his family, sailing on the Melita from Liverpool to New Brunswick.  He died in Winnipeg, Manitoba aged 91.

We have found one child, Sidney John Riches who was born in December 1917, and who died aged 92 in Fakenham, Norfolk, in 2010.

Do you recognise this family – do get in touch if you can help.