SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: First World War hero remembered at new housing development

THE Last Fighting Tommy – better known as Henry “Harry” Patch – is to be honoured at a new community housing development in Somerton.

David Wilson Homes has named its new community, off Langport Road, Patch Meadows after the last surviving combat soldier of the First World War who once lived nearby.

The name was chosen by pupils at Huish Episcopi Academy, who were set the challenge of picking a fitting title for the new development by the five-star housebuilder.

PHOTO – TOP: Sales adviser Rob Kissane from David Wilson Homes presents a selection of new books to Emily Hounsell, Megan Logsdon and Jack Davey.

PHOTO – RIGHT: The Last Fighting Tommy – Harry Patch – who died in 2009 at the fantastic age of 111.

Teacher Miranda Banwell, whose Year 7 class came up with the suggestion, said: “The class wanted the name to reflect the history of the area and did lots of research into finding something that suited the location.

“When they discovered Harry used to live in the area they felt he should be remembered. It was a great way for the class to learn about their community and the First World War.”

David Wilson Homes agreed it was fitting tribute and sales adviser Rob Kissane visited the school this week to reward class 7MB for its suggestion with a selection of new books.

“The children have really made us proud by suggesting a historic and fitting name for our new development in Somerton,” he said. “We hope they enjoy their new books and seeing the signs for Patch Meadows going up very soon.”

Henry Patch, more commonly known as Harry, fought in the trenches of the Western Front and was the last surviving combat soldier of the First World War from any country.

He passed away in 2009, having reached 111 years of age and becoming a British supercentenarian. His longevity briefly made him the third oldest man in the world and the oldest man in Europe.

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