Son sees war hero dad's memorial for first time

Until 1942, when aged 20, he joined the RAF, Anthony Bennett's father, Denis, worked at the West Sussex Gazette, which was then based in Arundel.

The town's museum holds a large collection relating to the newspaper, which has served the West Sussex community for more than 150 years.

Among the numerous artefacts and ephemera relating to the WSG is a plaque commemorating Denis Bennett, who was one of 22 employees from the paper who went to fight in World War Two.

All returned except for Denis.

Son, Anthony, 64, who now lives in Wick, was born in Woodview, Arundel in 1943.

He was only a baby when his father died and although he has always attended the annual British Legion Memorial Service in Arundel, he knew little about him, until, following his mother's passing away a few years ago, he discovered documents relating to Denis.

Last week Anthony wrote to the WSG asking if we had any information relating to his father and WSG editor, John Hammond, recalled seeing the plaque at the museum.

A visit was then arranged and Anthony met up with Arundel Museum committee member, Eric Nash, 79, who had actually worked with Denis at the WSG.

For the full story and more photos, don't miss the February 7 edition of the West Sussex Gazette.

Donations towards the fund for a new building for Arundel Museum can be made to the, Arundel Museum Society, addressed to the Treasurer, Arundel Museum and Heritage Centre, 61 High Street. BN18 9ST.