Harry Harpham was born at 126 Barrows Hill Lane, Westwood, the son of Richard and Helene Harpham.  He had two brothers, William and Richard and two sisters, Hilda and Helen.  Tragically, Harry’s mother died of blood poisoning when Harry was only nine years old and one of his sisters faced, what must have been a difficult task, in bringing up all of the children. 

After he had been called up for military service, Harry met and married Lily but after only a few months of marriage he was drafted to Egypt.  

Harry was killed in action during the North African Campaign on Wednesday 22^nd July 1940, aged 22 years,  but as no body had been found, he was listed as “missing -  presumed dead” for the customary period of seven years.   During this period of terrible uncertainty Harry’s young widow, moved to the Westwood area.  The family gave her great support.  After the war, one of Harry’s comrades visited Harry’s parents and told them that the tank Harry was in received a direct hit.   

Lily later married Harry’s brother Richard as in their bereavement they had supported each other and become great friends.   

Harry is commemorated on Alamein Memorial, Egypt, Column 24. 

 Last Updated 2^nd October 2002