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I've just seen your post R _Francis. Yes, please, I'd love to hear what you know about the brickworkers and brickfields. I have a 2xGGF who was a brickfield labourer in Heston. I have a book 'And so Make a City Here' which is useful, but I'd like to know more. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks Jim1,

That looks like my man. Unfortunately, as this is a community project, I just don't have the funds for certificates and the like. But then, I'm not sure the death certificate is going to reveal much new information anyway. However, I appreciate your post.

I would be grateful for any help tracking this man.

He is Herbert Ernest Smith, born 1880 in Paignton, Devon, the son of a policeman. He had served in the Royal Artillery and was discharged in 1914. He then rejoined (possibly later that year) and soon received the rank of Quarter-master Sergeant. He died in Exeter hospital in January 1916. CWGC records list his wife as Henrietta G Smith of Oak Bridge, Sidbury, Sidmouth, Devon.

I suspect his wife's maiden name may have been Browne (by virtue of birth registrations I have found) but I can't find any records of a marriage; I can't find either of them in the 1901 or 1911 censuses but this could be due to his army postings at this time. She may have died in 1951. I cannot find any obituaries for either of them.

My main interest is finding out about any elements of his army service and the circumstances of his death: I'm am researching him to pay tribute as he is listed on the Lustleigh war memorial.

Hi Pauline,

I know this is a long time since your post, and maybe you are no longer using Rootschat, but some research I am currently doing has thrown up both Brickfield Cottages and Kings Arms Lane. I'm sure it is just a coincidence, but stranger things happen. The surname I'm researching is Fisher - does that mean anything to you?

Regards