RFA at Blackpool

[Noyes16]

Dear All,

The attached photo shows men training on the beach in front of Victoria Pier (renamed South Pier in 1930) in Blackpool. The man standing on the far left is believed to be my great great uncle, Gunner W/4709 Frederick Joseph Noyes, who served with the RFA. Can anyone tell me if there was a RFA training depot at Blackpool? I'm aware that the 'W' prefix in his service number suggests he served with the RFA in the 38th (Welsh) Division, though I don't believe they trained at Blackpool.

Many thanks,

Robin

[sotonmate]

73 Division were based at Blackpool in Nov 1916 (LLT) whilst building up to strength. They were eventually disbanded. It just might be that your GGU was with one of its RFA units: 354 or 355 Brigade RFA or the 73Div Ammo Col.RFA.

[Noyes16]

Even though his service record hasn't survived, Frederick's granddaughter in Canada did provide me with copies of forms Z.21 and B.2007. These show he enlisted on 17th May 1915 so it's unlikely he was with 73rd Division which wasn't formed until late 1916, unless of course he was part of the Derby Scheme.

[Simon_Fielding]

http://1914-1918.invisionzone.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=212177#entry2096653

Hi there - just wondering if you have seen this new thread and the picture of your relative :

Email me if you'd like a copy - would it be possible to have a copy of your picture? Did you get any further information on the unit shown here?

Simon

[bantamforgot]

Blackpool & indeed the whole area has been a military site for many, many decades long before ww1 & as with many seaside towns was used for training & caring for wounded troops. There is at present "The Duke of Lancasters" at Weeton camp near Blackpool,this camp has existed almost as long as Blackpool. During WW2 the camp was occupied by the RAF & Blackpool itself was a RAF training centre.

Colin.