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Trevor Edwards | profile | all galleries >> Galleries >> Deal & Walmer, Kent. UK tree view | thumbnails | slideshow

Deal & Walmer, Kent. UK

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Lifeboat Station
Lifeboat Station		 The Lifeboat
The Lifeboat		 Deal
Deal		 Old Boat
Old Boat
Old Boat 2
Old Boat 2		 Deal Castle
Deal Castle		 Deal Castle (442)
Deal Castle (442)		 Fishing Pots
Fishing Pots
Deal Beach
Deal Beach		 Something Fishy (509)
Something Fishy (509)		 Arty Shovel Shot
Arty Shovel Shot		 Orange & Lemons
Orange & Lemons
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robert shorrocks 27-Mar-2024 18:35
loking for denis matthews from salford we took our oath together in manchester and he let me stay the night at his home before we travelled to deal in april 1958 any help please r shorroks
robert shorrocks 27-Mar-2024 18:28
trying to find denis matthews from salford we took the oath together in manchester in april 1958 can anyone help please we went to deal in kent as junior buglers r shorroccks
Steve Ralph 06-Feb-2024 16:44
Deal Military Barracks Hospital
Print dated 1771 seems to early
Steve Ralph 06-Feb-2024 16:43
Deal Military Barracks hospital
a print dated 1771
The date seems early to me
Any info ?
MARTIN KELLY 23-Aug-2022 14:08
details of new entries in Royal Marines in 1960
s
r shorrocks 11-Dec-2021 22:02
I joined with dennis Mathews in april 1957 we swore our oath together in Manchester then off to deal as junior buglers he lived in Salford I would love to get in touch
David Simpson (Simmo) 22-Apr-2018 18:19
I was training as the only Bugler in my new entry squad 4/65 with Musicians such as Upton,Cunninham Watson etc from 1965-1968.I would love to get back in touch. My e-mail is below. RM24198 (PO24198P)
Michael O'Halloran 15-Mar-2018 15:35
originally posted in 2008:Mic O'Halloran; 30-Oct-2008 00:09
Mic O'Halloran, Loved your photos. Spent many summers at Hawkeshill Camp for London Boys in the 50's right next to the Jewish lads Brigade camp on the cliffs south of Deal and Walmer. Would love to see any photos of the camps. Live in the US now and went back to visit in 2004. Camps are gone and now a private road. [presnt day 2018] am still hoping that someone has or knows of any photos of when the old airfield and
hanger was used as a boys camp and later boys and girls. would be extremely grateful.
Guest 26-Jul-2017 21:44
does anyone remember april 1958 musicians and buglers intake at deal kent sgt king bug major wagstaff corporal molloy sgt bubbles burbridge my room had Pym syvier Hammond crook and me shorrocks happy days
Frank Newman 24-Jan-2017 13:09
I joined the Royal Marines in 1959 as a member of the 734 Squad. After eight years of service I went back to Deal as a Weapon Training NCO. I met a lovely young lady in 1960 named Kay Lawton, I often wonder how she is now.
Rebecca 30-Nov-2016 18:18
Hi my grandpa was first drill at deal barracks in the 50s and the 60s his name was john Ernest Edwards (nutty) I would love to hear from anyone who has any information or can remember him, feel free to email me on bekieland1990@gmail.com
Guest 18-Aug-2016 08:58
the barracks at deal are now houses but the old graves are still there and not looked a fter at all gates for use by residents only make it impossible to tend or pay respects
rod redgrave 22-May-2016 16:07
i joined royal marines school of music in 1956,my name is rod redgrave mike tyson and blecher were in the squad any bbody rember us ?
Ernest Edwards 12-Mar-2016 15:20
I knew rsm franks in Plymouth in 1957/58 i have many memories i would like to share with you all of which i will never forget
bob shorrocks 17-Jan-2016 22:37
does anyone remember deal 1958 I was a bugler drummer along with Mathews steele croft Pym smith hall macfadzean anypne remember me bob shorrocks
bob shorrocks 17-Jan-2016 22:26
does anyone remember rms school of music deal in 1958 steele Matthews hall mcfadzean willis croft smith and me r shorrocks bugler drummer
Vic (Jake ) Lewis - Jacob 17-Aug-2015 13:19
Seeking all you ex booties of the 655 Squad of 1956. I know you all existed 'cos I've got a Squad photo. Did we all disappear into civvy land wearing snipers " can't see me suits ". 'Cos you are bl**dy hard to trace.
Last posted on 8/6/2012 when Pete (Mike) Campbell owned up to living in Canada. Come on you idle lot, must be some of us still alive. Also seeking Brian Stait ( not 655 Squad )
a friend in both Marines and the dreaded Civvy Street.

Oh well! I fires this arrow in the air, and hope it makes painless contact.
Vic ( Jake ) Jacob RM 15565 40 & 45 Cdo.
Paul brooks 19-May-2015 20:31
in the 1950s I had a holiday in bell tents in walmer Kent it must have been hawksbill camp eny more information please
Frank Eaton 15-Apr-2015 20:25
Just like Les Osborn I too joined 624 Kings squad on 23rd Feb 1954 aged 17 and a half oh those were the days first draft chit HMS Albion, sbs poole then HMS Birmingham Les if Ron Patching (another 624 man is still around God bless yer both. RM 13727
john 26-Mar-2015 01:04
Did you service at Wavell barracks known as British Military hospital Benghazi between 1948-1957. I am putting together any regiment that was based there. if you can help please email me John on >johnpodesta@rocketmail.com<
Guest 09-Mar-2015 22:18
Anybody know when 1 Duke Street was demolished to build car park?
Still on the hunt for Walmesleys.
Richard Lewis 15-Jan-2015 20:07
Hi eddie, Yes hawkshill house still exists. It is now a private house again and I live there with my wife and four children. Do you have some memories/relationship to the property.
Chris 04-Jan-2015 00:00
My late father served at Deal in the Royal Marines Band. He joined 1953 roughly and left to get married in 1957ish. He left some old photographs that were taken at the barracks .
ken spicer 24-Jun-2014 10:49
Hi John Ford, it would be great if you were to contact me via email. I'm Ken Spicer, lived at 61 Downs Rd. you would also most likely remember Derek Richards, Johnny Finnis, Cliff Palmer as well as Dinger, Johnny Heard and Mick Parfitt. We were all good friends, I now live in Australia but have been home on a few occasions, last time in 2013, when I saw mick Parfitt in the town, I was also at the 'Canada College' and was in Mr Morris's class, could tell you lots more, hope you or any others from deal would like to contact me.
email, dealites35@optusnet.com.au
Heather 14-Jun-2014 02:43
Photos dated 1916 Engineering Party, Royal Marines 63rd squad, Walmer Castle are here in Ontario Canada....Photo by Walter J Dovey, Jersey.....Where do they need to be sent in the UK??
Guest 17-Apr-2014 21:11
Guest 08 April. My family descend from Anthony Walmesley. Wonder if your Walmesley is related. Excited!
Guest 08-Apr-2014 07:04
Im after any info on Norman wisdoms life in deal. Thank u in advance (guest from Feb...I work with a Walmesley)
Guest 22-Feb-2014 16:38
I'm looking for any Walmesley family members still living in Deal. Love the pictures.
Nigel Franks 08-Dec-2013 16:51
My father was RSM TWP Franks, who sadly died in January 2004. Is there still anyone out there who has any recollections of their time with him in the Royal Marines? Any interesting stories of events / times past would be most welcome. Thankyou. Nigel Franks
john 21-Nov-2013 02:02
Does anybody know who was there with 45 commando training in Libya in 1958. an article says,Royal Sussex regiment took over from them that year in July there abouts in Benghazi,Libya. What I am trying to find. were they based at a camp and if so what was its name in the 6 months they were there in Libya. please contact John Podesta
>johnpodesta@rocketmail.com<
Guest 17-Oct-2013 16:06
Doug Worthington 831 squad RM23875. Our drill instructor was Corporal Cruickshank. I always remember the first day going into the dining room and all the more established lads banging their utensils on the tables to welcome us !!
guest 07-Jul-2013 12:44
I lived in Deal from 1947 (age 2) - 1956 at 1 Beach St, attended Deal Parochial Primary School, completely lost contact with school friends, my parents were Alfred & Kathleen Knowles, I had a sister called Tony Elzabeth, I am Rosslyn - now in Australia. Love all theses pic, thank you for the site
Mic O'Halloran 06-Jun-2013 14:21
Am still looking for any photos of Hawkshill camp for London boys from 1955 through 1963.
Looking for photos of an old friend, who's gone now, he was 15 when I last saw him. 4 years later I emmigrated to the United States. Would greatly appreciate any and all photos of the camp during that time period.
born in Deal 30-Mar-2013 20:40
i was born in Deal in 1952 and went to Deal convent in QUEEN STREET from 1957 for about 6 years be interested to hear from anybody from that time
William H. Hayward 18-Mar-2013 02:38
My 4th Great-Grandfather was Thomas Hayward who was the boat builder in Deal in the 1700's. His home and shop was Prospect House, which still stands today. He built nine Luggers that I know of in his life. I have the names of these boats and the year they were built. His Grandson, Gammon Hayward, who is my Great Grandfather, came to the United states in 1853 and he built the first steamboat that sailed on the Great Salt Lake. The boat was named 'Kate Conner' in honor of General Patrick conner's daughter.
Mary Andrewes 27-Feb-2013 18:50
Come in John Ford! - you're the the boy from up the road who came skipping out of your house in 1945 to tell us we'd won the war. I was born at No.9 Havelock. I remember John Heard, his sister was my best friend. There were several kids living there and it was safe to play in the street so we probably all new one another. You might have 'married' my sister Joyce in the air raid shelter Went to Canada Road School too and would love to catch up with memories - please get in touch.
Guest 30-Dec-2012 10:34
Grace.............
I remember when the sunken area along North Barrack road was called Tapps Hole.
Around there was a coal merchant with the name Of Tapp.
Also the Round about at the top of Beach Street used to be a Gents toilet, that was in the days of much less traffic.......
nick hall 29-Dec-2012 20:46
JACK WHITE. i am trying to gather some information on my grandad who joined the marines in 1945 and was in MTD 1squad at Deal, his service number was PO/X123877. his name was Derek Hall. If anybody has heard of him or knew him it would be great to hear from you.
dave miller 24-Nov-2012 01:25
Brian Frost ********error That should read 697 squad Not 698

Dave RM17516
P.Cowley 08-Nov-2012 11:26
This is very long shot, my name is Paul Cowley and l joined the Juniors in Sept 69.
Formed 47 Squad with mates Phil Dent and Richard Early. l, regrettably, purchased my discharge but have always wondered what happened to the Guys.
My son became a Royal Marine yesterday!
Dave Miller 05-Nov-2012 17:10
Attn: Brian Frost ex 697 squad Deal.
Brian, I'm trying to compile all the photos of the 698 Squad, at Deal and at ITCRM. If you have any you can email to me, please do. Regards - Dave Miller RM17516 - alive and " sort of " we'll ;-) in Gallatin.TN. USA
PS - I intend to get as many as I can, add music to the slide show, and put it on YouTube. After all, we aren't going to be around too much longer ;-) Heard from Fisher-Meadows-Hill in the last week or so
John Ford 05-Oct-2012 06:02
Are there any old pupils left out there who went to Canada Road School, Walmer, Deal, Kent, U.K. in the war years of 1940 to '45. The Headmaster's name was Mr Morris, and his favourite saying was: "Open your books to page 43" and I don't want to hear another word from you. He then promply nodded off to sleep, whilst we threw our pens into the ceiling or dipped the girl's hair in front into the ink well! On one occasion I remember during a n air raid, whilst down the shelter, getting married at the age of five, can't remember the lady in question, but we had a best man, and kissed the bride! Some names spring to mind - Peter Bell, John Heard, Michail Parfitt, ??? Domont, can't think of the names now, but can still remember the playground and those ink-stained desks. Be nice to share some memories from those days with former pupils. As a child I lived in Havelock Road, Walmer, and John Heard lived opposite. Remember the yellow-nosed mechasmits cannon firing our street and the doodle bugs, searthlights, etc. Memories, hey! Well hope there are still some old class-mates out there, kindest regards from John Ford
George Pether 11-Aug-2012 03:35
I was looking for photographs of the Royal Marine band in the fifties and wasso surprised and pleased to read of other ex RMB band members looking for the same.If Paul GrahamRMB3171 would like to leave message for me on my email gpether1@att.net I may be able to help him as I have pictures of the Royal Marine band at Deal and ,I believe Chatham Also I was on HMS Sheffield on escort of the Queen & Prince Philip on the Gothic. I would love to get some pictures of The Royal Marine band during the coronation. I remember how hard I worked to look good on that Parade so that I could be rained on; kept pouring water out of my euphonium Hope get response Paul
Guest 10-Jun-2012 12:01
Yabba Dabba Do!
Hi Mike ( Campbell ),
Great to find someone at last. Perhaps we might find others. On the Kings Squad photo
I am behind you, and the man to your right, Bob Vallins is my brother in law, ( now lives
in Torrevieja Spain ). Best wishes to you and yours.
Vic ( Jake ) Jacob
Peter Campbell 08-Jun-2012 21:47
Yes there is at least one other 655 squad member still alive! Peter Campbell, aka Mick. RM 15554. Living on Vancouver Island BC Canada.
Guest 07-Jun-2012 13:17
Hi Derek from RM 15565 Vic ( Jake ) Jacob,
Wish we knew each other mate ( to you I am just a sprog ). No sign of 655 Squad either.
Are we the last alive ? Or was it all a dream ? Tot / TT / or UA ? Sippers not Sandy Bottoms to Bootnecks everywhere.
Derek Buss 01-Jun-2012 10:34
I joined 532 Squad in August 1956.I have never yet seen any member of this Squad mentioned any where I know we are all getting old but there must be some of us around
Guest 24-May-2012 16:55
Wake up you old bootnecks. Someone out there MUST have been in 655 Squad of 1956, and in
Malta, Cyprus, Aden, North Africa etc. Or am I the last man alive ? Any input would be good. Best wishes to ALL marines, both new and old.
Vic ( Jake ) Jacob RM 15565.
brian frost 20-Mar-2012 15:28
697 squad rm 17482 frosty still going strong life never the same after leaving the greatest gang of oppos a man ever had once a marine always amarine
bri 08-Mar-2012 16:00
was a leader at hawkshill camp around 1963.remember the jlb next door.very military.man fined for being in womens lines(his wifes tent!)our kids loved the whole experiance.CCHF for children still running in ESSEX 125 years +
bri
Eddie Newall 29-Dec-2011 20:14
Does Hawks Hill House, Walmer, still exist? In 1911 it belonged to John Williamson, one of the founders of Williamson and Barnes Solicitors of Deal.
gina campbel 20-Dec-2011 05:52
trying to trace records of royal marine/naval diver peter gerald morley born 3rd january 1924 served and trained ay eastry barracks 1943 onwards
Amanda 16-Oct-2011 23:29
Emily,

My mother was called Olive Bellamy and was in the Womens Royal Air Force during the 2nd world war and I think she was stationed at one time in Deal, Kent. She died in 2005 aged 81. It could be her autograph book.Regards Amanda
Vic ( Jake ) Jacob 08-Sep-2011 16:39
FROM Vic ( Jake ) Jacob re the next comment you read on this page. My last remaining brain cell has just engaged. Remembered the L/corps name at last. Vincent Stubbins.
Any input at all would be appreciated. Best wishes to Booties everwhere - may the beer
never run out. RM 15565 / 655 Squad Jake Jacob.
vic ( Jake ) Jacob 05-Sep-2011 15:36
To all ex bootnecks " Help ". I am now an old fart but once was RM 15565 of 655 Squad in
1956. After training, on to Malta, Libya, Cyprus ( 40 CDO ) and Aden ( 45 CDO ). Got shot
up in Cyprus ( about the time of peace talks - typical ), with L/Cpl ( forgotten ) mechanic Doug Weatherall and driver Flash Lightning on the road Platres to Pinewood whilst taking chopper fuel ready for pulling out of Cyprus. No matter where I look I cannot find reference to 655 Squad of 1956 or above incident.
Any help would be great.
Vic ( Jake ) Jacob
Email is Vicandmar @ Tiscali.co.uk. PS. My best hat is still GREEN.
Sharon Morris 16-Jul-2011 11:12
My Great Great Grandfather was Edward Thomas Rose who was born in Eastry but ran a successful Tailors and Hatters business on the Strand in Walmer for many years. Has anyone any information or, even better, photographs of The Strand during the late 19th Century? Would be very grateful. Sharon Morris
Les Osborne 04-Jul-2011 14:02
Reading through the comments brought back many memories fro me as a Former 'Bootneck'.
I joined the 624 Kings squad at deal in feb 1954. 1st Commish was with X troop then with A Troop 45 Cdo in Malta. The unit then went to Cyprus in 1955. I was repatriated to the UK (lamentably) in June 1956. Sadly, I didn;t get to Suex with all of may great mates i'e Ron Patching, Ken owen, 'Squeeggie lips (Ginge) Morgan Stan walsh and Taff Nurton just to name a few. Gunnery at Pompey. HMS Ceylon, HMS Belfast. ASRM Poole, HMS Ursa. HQ 3Cdo Bde. MOA to Capt Secombe who was Adjutant at Pompey. I must be the only Marine to have been in the Band and drums Company at Eastney. Such Happy memories just regret I only did 13 yrs and not 21. God Bless all ex and Serving 'Royals'
Paul Graham 15-Jun-2011 08:55
I joined RMB in 1953 number was RMB 3171 has anyone any photo's of that period
Guest 08-Mar-2011 16:54
Guest
How do I find out about my fathers war history he was trained at Deal in 1943 with MT 13 Squad Royal Marines
mandy green nee (coe) 14-Feb-2011 19:54
Can anyone help me, i have discovered that my real father was a marine at Deal Barracks in 1960 where he me my mother Jill Wallace who was married to Cyril coe (charlie) anyway whilst cyril was at sea a man called William concieved a child with my mother and i am a result of that, i dont know anything about him only that he was tall. William, tried to see me when i was born on May 30th 1960, but my step father would not allow it and told him to go away, i only found out 2 years ago and without a surname this is a long shot. My Aunty still lives in walmer and another Aunty in Deal, any info would be fantastic.
Emily 11-Nov-2010 20:36
Hi there, I have an autograph book belonging to an " Olive Bellamy", it is signed by "Dorothy Smart (Forces Social Club Deal 1945) " Does anyone have any other information on either of these people?
Tom Binley 30-Oct-2010 00:13
Well remember many of the photo shots and a lot more of the places down at deal .Joined at Deal June 59 returned late 63 posted 63 returned 67 lived in Canada Rd demobed 69 & should have stayed in the corps
karen hitchcock 14-Oct-2010 12:51
does any one have any old photos of the band showing my dad chic. hitchcock
Philip `Harry` Harrison 26-Aug-2010 17:34
I too enlisted at Deal in 1952 August 26th (today 58 years ago) Well remember captain Blood RSM Franks and Sgt (later RSM ) McDonnell, not forgetting Cpl Barton. I was one of the members of 601 squad and cannot forget the dentist with his foot pedal drill on my teeth which he tortured me for 4 sessions without anasthetic. The haircut after I already had one before leaving home in Watford on that August day. We did 12 weeks at Deal in those days and were not allowed out for the first month for a `run ashore` in Ramsgate.After that life was one round of training and sweating over an Infantry training course of 13 weeks , six weeks of seamanship and Naval Gunnery in Eastney and on the Cleopatra in Pompey Harbour and a six week Commando course at Yelverton. Plus an extra course in cliff climbing for exercise `Runaground`.I was luccky to have taken part on the Queens Coronation in June 1953 with my squad mates and trained soldiers of the Corps. Stonehouse barracks was my favourite place with its cosy rooms and great canteen/dining room at the end of the drill shed. Back to Devonport for more Naval Gunnery bench work on the Monitor HMS Marshal Ney. Looking back i would do it again if it were`nt for my old age and aches and pains. Met some great long time friends and was moulded into a decent adult by NCOs and officers which has stayed with me for the remainder of my lucky life. Who would have thought that marching into Deal Barracks on August 26th 1952 would change ALL of my life forever. Philip (Harry) Harrison RM12216.
linda mcdonald 21-Jun-2010 14:39
hi trying to locate a william hennessey, who on the 1801 census was desribed as a pensioner, as his wife lydia and ist child was born in walmer, i was hoping you could help ,maybe he was attached to your bks, i have tried every avenue but alas no william, all we know is he was born in ireland ,but was located in walmer, in 1801 he was 48 but then living in leeds, its a puzzle, what was he a pensioner of, H.E.L.P. thanks lin
I F Boyd 20-Jun-2010 12:46
I was Rm 14637 Mne I Boyd. I joined 638 squad at Deal on Feb 1954. I then served on HMS Eagle in the Med,and Suez.On return to UK. I spent nearly 3 years at ST Georges Baracks
with 3 CDO BDE.in Malta.It was a great time. Back at Pompey, I had eye trouble, and was discharged in 1961.I now live in Queensland Australia,but backpack around the world every 2or3years Always returning to Pompey Baracks.When we drilled on Deal parade ground,The bandboys were there in berets& dark uniform.And to march to the Band Was a very uplifting experience. Even today, when I see or hear them. Memories flood back. To be, or have been A Royal Marine, Can never be surpassed.
Steve Martin 17-May-2010 21:58
My father, Alan Martin, is going down to visit Deal next week some fifty years after he was based there. I know he's really excited about going down, as is mum, Norma.
I don't know a great deal, no pun intended, about my fathers time in the Royal Marines,
save for the fact he & mum were based in Deal @ he served on HMS Eagle in the early 1950's.
I also realise there have been a great many changes in those fifty years - my father is now 74 & although still as smart as he was back then, probably does not realise just how much things have changed.
Can anyone give me any info on what he should expect to see fifty years on, what places should he visit that would take both himself & mum back to when they were actually there?
My parents are getting on in years & are returning to a place that no doubt holds very special memories for them, so any info received which would help them relive those memories would be most welcome.
Eddie Stanley 07-Apr-2010 14:27
I Joined the Royal Marines at Deal in August 1950
571 Squad were the first recruits to be billited in the new intake block (Food Scarce)
Strict Dicipline. not long before I crossed the path of Captain Blood and RSM Franks.
Years Later I Found them both to be Very Fine Gentlemen.
I Later served in Malaya. Malta. Lybia. Canal Zone. Cyprus. etc. in diffrent Commando Units. Meeting the best Comrades any man could have. I'm always interested in any ex.E.Troop 45Cdo.who served in Malaya.
Carl Birch 30-Jan-2010 14:43
I joined the Royal Marines Guy Fawkes day 1963 with 801 squad and the fireworks have never stopped since.
Guest 09-Jan-2010 09:46
Len Manktelow.
Ijoined the Royal Marines in May 1950 {568} squad. I remember RSM Franks C/SERGEANT H E Day D/SERGEANT Cattermole and Captain Blood.Happy days.
Jack White 14-Dec-2009 09:28
I joined the Royal Marines in April 1945 and was in MTD 2squad. Later became Co´s driver to Col: Dewhurst, then to Col: Tollemach de-mobbed in 1947. I would like to wnow if any of my friends are still around, especially Marine Hostead who I believe went to live in the Sandwich area.Jack White PO/X 123950 D.
Colin Hayes 29-Aug-2009 06:35
Hi Dave
I joined the Rotal Marines in June 1958 695 Squad. I have looked at all your photographs on u tube, and I am sure some of those pictures contain members of our squad, especially the ones taken in Lympstone. I did my sea training on HMS Vanguard which is shown in a few of your shots. After that period 694 695 696 and 697 squads amalgamated at Eastney barracks to train for the 1959 Earls Court Royal Tournament. I have an official photograph of all 4 squads standing on the steps of the Officers Mess at Eastney. We had a squad reunion in 2008 (50 years) at Exmouth, and we managed to trace 15 of our members, some of which hadn't seen each other since training. It was such a success we decided to make it an annual event and we met up again this year, and next year is already booked. My wife and I also visit Lympstone every September for the RM Association reunion which is always a good weekend. It comprises of the Saturday on the camp at leisure watching the recruits train. A band concert and buffet dance on Saturday night. Then Sunday morning is the RMA Parade and Service. It is not unusual to get 500 veterans on parade. We will be in Memphis and Nashville in 2010 on holiday. Perhaps we could meet up and swing the lamp for a couple of hours, and exchange some photographs.
Colin
Dave Miller 06-Aug-2009 20:28
This website cetainly brings back a lot of memories, some good some bad. I joined the RM's July 8th 1958. Along with several other great guys ( Fisher-Davidge-Dorling etc, we joined many more at Deal, to form the 697 Squad ) We were marched to the station in London, boarded the train for RM Deal. We were introduced to haircuts,denims and what looked like cardboard shoes. That was the start of the fun. Parade ground was my favourite, especially marching to the RM band, plus rifle drill. Next treat, was " extra drill " one of the least favourite past times. Then the underground swimming pool" Swimmers to the shallow end, NON swimmers to the deep end " was the order of the day.That diving board was as high as Mount Everest, and the water equally as deep. Plus the " pervert " instructors, would pull the pole away when you were drowning ! How we survived that and the next few months was amazing. One event always stayed in my mind. There was a visiting Lt Col USMC from the USA. He spoke to C/Sgt Hoskins, our instructor along with Cpl Phillips,after our marching and rifle drill presentation
" Those Marines, sure know how to use those Boots ! " He was impressed, certainly more than the C/Sgt was. After completing training, we headed ( no joke )by train, in the luggage compartment, sitting on kitbags or standing, all the way to Lympstone, where we were marched up the hill, for more fun and excitement for the next few weeks. Despite only serving just over a year ( knee injury on assualt course at Lympstone ) then off to Stonehouse to be medically discharged, I still am proud to have been a Royal Marine, even for such a short time. Retired now. Dreading being 70 years old in October, and living near Nashville. Tennessee..

See my videos on Youtube... Type in " BOOTNECK58 " and see what life is like here in and around Music City USA.

Dave Miller ex-RM17516
d o'neil 19-Jul-2009 18:12
my greatgrandad was crew of walmer lifeboat ,name mackins approx 1900,any information please, hartigrave@aol.com
Jeff Bradley 14-Mar-2009 14:18
I live at Walmer Court and would be grateful for any information about this lovely old building.
Michael Crouch 17-Feb-2009 17:26
My great-grandfather, James Jefferson, and his father, Samuel Robinson Jefferson, ran the Beach House (Temperance) Hotel some time between the 1880's and about 1920. I believe it was destroyed in the 1940's. Samuel was also a tailor in the Royal Marines and was based at Portsmouth, Chatham and Walmer during his long career. There are photos of James' family and the hotel on the Jefferson page of my web site at www.uklocalhistory.co.uk.
Robert J Briggs 17-Dec-2008 20:11
A 2x great Uncle, Benjamin Bullen was in the north barracks of Walmer, Kent in the 1851 census. He was with the 30th (Cambridgeshire Regiment of Foot).
Is the north barracks still there and is it possible there might be some photos around either old or newer ones. Also is there any history or records of this oufit being there
and was it from here they went to the Crimean War.
Cheers from Canada
Robert J Briggs
Mic O'halloran 30-Oct-2008 00:09
Mic O'Halloran, Loved your photos. Spent many summers at Hawkeshill Camp for London Boys in the 50's right next to the Jewish lads Brigade camp on the cliffs south of Deal and Walmer. Would love to see any photos of the camps. Live in the US now and went back to visit in 2004. Camps are gone and now a private road.
wendy 04-Oct-2008 16:40
My father was in the royal marines,George Parkyn, we lived at Beach street Deal 1954-1960 next door to the rowing club..now trying to trace my mothers family history as her family came from Deal. Frank Gimber (her Father)was killed in 1918, her mother was Maud Gimber nee Hammond..
joy nelson 13-Sep-2008 14:41
joy nelson (formerly Robson)
Dad was a Royal Marine - for a brief period in 1948 we lived at H House in North Barracks, next to Lower Walmer Primary School in Canada Road - does anyone remember this house? It seems to have been flattened during 'redevelopment' - I was there in July this year and tried to find it. Would love to get hold of site plan showing it. Tried Walmer Council - no luck.
John Bailey 18-Aug-2008 09:34
I joined the Royal Marines at Deal in September 1961 and when we finished our training in February 1962 we were then marched in full dress uniform to the station from the barracks via the high street with the band playing "auld lang syne" to get the train to Portmouth and then to Lympstone. In those days recruits were only allowed out of barracks in full dress uniform. There was reputed to be 109 pubs in Deal then including the well known "Dive Bar" in the basement of the hotel on the front. I returned to Deal (Feb 64 - May 66) from 42 Commando RM in Far East. In 1964 the Royal Marines were 300 years old and the Royal Marine Band and the School of Music put on some spectacular events under Lt Col Vivian Dunn OBE FRAM who was knighted shortly afterwards. I have very fond memories of Deal during this period after national service had just finished and regular forces were expanding. A squad was passing out at Deal every two weeks. Several marines married local girls or marine WRENs who were stationed at Deal
Fiona 23-Jul-2008 20:51
Has anyone got any memories of the part of North Barrack Road called Tapps Hole? I live at No 30 and wondered if the garden adjacent to No 28 was used as a drying area, or was there ever another house once there? Thanks for your reply
Jim Deeprose 09-Jul-2008 12:54
I was born in Deal November 1945 , my dad was an instructor at the junior nco's school.We lived at 42 North Barrack Road .I remember my dad marching home from the barracks each evening with pace stick under his arm . I joined the corp at Deal in November 1962 - 789 squad , and my brother followed me in 1965.
So many memories of Deal , sad to see the Royal Marines are not in residence anymore.
F J M Brown 06-Jul-2008 19:11
I was a Royal Marines recruit in 1947.We were billited in East Barracks and instructed under the watchful eye of Sgt George Easingwood. On "runs ashore" I with my friends would visit Mrs McCann's restaurant near the centre of the town where we could buy steak and chips, bread and tea, all for one shilling and ninepence.Nowdays a fish supper costs the better part of £6!
Guest 13-Apr-2008 07:57
I'm looking for anyone who has memories of time spent at the Royal Marine Barracks as part of the Bermondsey Boys Brigade around 1955. My father has vivid memories of time spent there and in particular watching a night time parade layed on especially for the boys. Dad says the parade was the most magical thing he has ever witnessed and has stayed with him ever since.
Susan mastin 05-Apr-2008 19:13
i lived at clanwilliam road till i got married and moved away. love looking at the photos as i now live in canada.belonged to the rowing club, still follow there progress.went to saint ethelberts convent sorry to see that got pulled down
Vicky 22-Jan-2008 22:42
Hi Cath,

"Yes" I remember the Convent that you speak of and it was true ( Norman Wisdoms Grandmother lived just round the corner) Norman was brought up by his Grandmother. I was born in Deal 1950 and lived there until I got Married in 1967 infact I lived opposite the Royal Marine Barracks Deal.

Kind Regards Vicky.
cath 13-Nov-2007 17:05
my husband was in the marines and we lived near a convent.at that time there was a dairy farm nearby but i have forgotton the name.i got told norman wisdoms mother lived nearby but i dont know if this was true
christina 10-Aug-2007 09:14
i was born in walmer in 1961 at 10 fair maid of kent, dover road. i can,t find anything on the fair maid of kent, was it a block of flats or large house. could anyone throw any light on the subject.
Margaret 08-Feb-2007 15:14
brings back fond memories of visiting my relations...sadly all gone.
ganesan 29-Sep-2006 10:36
this picture real life
ganesan 29-Sep-2006 10:34
i love kent ilike kent
George Patterson 19-Aug-2006 03:15
First visited Deal July 1942, compulsory Bed &Breakfast at Royal Marine Barracks, most residents of the town had been evacuated, my three months sojurn gave me many happy memories. Perhaps one day I shall revisit and reaquaint myself with the lovely town of Deal.--- Mathew Arnold's 'Dover Beach' parallels Deal Beach Circa 1942. Would like to hear from any Ex Royal Marines now resident in Deal. Is there a local R.M. Associaion?
George Patterson, 29 Sandy Camp Road, Wynnum North Queensland 4178
X R.M. Po/x 114719 {T]
robert phillips 17-Jun-2006 03:15
i joined the Royal Marines at Deal Barracks in 1951 and while there was courting a girl called Barbara who lived in Mill Hill i have forgot her surname she would be in her seventies now i we used to go dancing to a dance hall just outside the Barracks i have also forgot what that was called i myself am now 73. GOD BLESS ALL AT WALMER BOB SAYNOR EX ROYAL MARINE
Alan Barnes 21-Jan-2006 00:40
I lived at 340 Dover Road Walmer from 1951(ish)untill August 1955 when we moved to Cardiff,this was were Dad was working at the time.Just checked out the new pictures of Upper Walmer,things have changed,not surprising!,the pub is still there,this used to be The George & Dragon,the shop a few yards towards Deal was Vyes,should think its changed now!.Keep up the good work.
WalmerWeb Webmaster 21-Aug-2005 17:15
Nice photos! If folk are interested in knowing more about Walmer, they might like to take a look at www.walmerweb.co.uk, the community website for Walmer, Kent.
Rob Gradon 04-Apr-2003 10:03
I oversee the Dover Coastguard web site, this is a new site not yet promoted but you can visit by typing in the address windowhttp://www.dovercoastguard.co.uk I would like to use some of your pictures, which would be included on the Deal Coast Rescue Team page. I would of course give credit for any picture I use to your name. As the site is a public information provider and as such does not have an income I would be grateful if your picture could be donated. Regards Rob.
Guest 22-Jul-2002 23:01
We enjoyed the pictures on your page. Greetings from North Alabama.
www.pbase.com/rpickle
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