Beckton
George Medal F J Redman
George Medal awarded to Frederick John Redman.
As well as medals awarded for service in the First World War, (Images on this web-site) Mr Redman further distinguished himself as a civilian in the Second World War. The George Medal was awarded when he was working at the Gas Light and Coke Company as Chief Valve-man. Redman and several other men were awarded the GM for their courageous action. The following is an extract of the report, as it relates to Redman, which appeared in the Supplement to the London Gazette of 21 March, 1941:-
Mr. Redman was responsible for saving the gas holders by turning off the valves, a long and difficult process. To do this he worked between blazing sheds and pumping stations with bombs falling all round. There was the added danger of exploding mains and gas fumes. Redman displayed great courage and endurance.
(see attachment for reverse side of medal)
Part of Newham Heritage & Archives collection
Tar Lorries
Fleet of lorries owned by the Gas Light & Coke Company, Beckton Gas Works.
Tar Spraying
BECSPRAY is the trade name for liguid tar from the Gas Light & Coke Company, Beckton Gas Works.
North Woolwich, 1880
Tue, 24/08/2010 - 15:57 — Newham Story BFDescriptive account in the Kentish Independent for 5th June 1880 of a trip to North Woolwich and Beckton when much of the (then) new industry, docks and housing was developing.
Beckton Road, 1890
Jerry -built housing in Beckton Road, about 1890. The demand for workers in the new and rapidly growing industrial areas of the borough created a huge demand for more housing.
UEL Docklands
The University of East London's Docklands campus was the first new university campus to be built in London for over fifty years.
