A MEMORIAL has been unveiled to two Ramsgate train drivers who died during the Second World War. The Mayor of Ramsgate, Cllr Dick Dickinson, organised the plaque himself in honour of Charlie Cotton and Wally Edwards.

He said: ”I joined the railways in 1947. It was very close-knit, like a brotherhood and everyone then knew about these two men.

Charlie was killed when a bomb hit Deal station and Wally was working at Westenhanger when an enemy aircraft fired on to the platform.”

The firemen on the trains both survived, and Cllr Dickinson worked with them during his career. He said: ”I did some research and there was nothing anywhere to say that these men had died for their country. They were serving the same as any soldier, sailor or airman. The railways ran all throughout the war, and these men deserved the credit.”

The ceremony was attended two of Charlie Cotton’s sons, Doug and Oddy, and several of his grandchildren. Many former railway workers also watched the unveiling in the ticket hall of Ramsgate station.

Cllr Dickinson added: ”People will see it on their way out and I hope they will stop and think about these men and what they did.”