Henry West and an unfortunate tornado

This plaque is in a graveyard close to the town centre. Apparently just six days before the opening of Reading station in 1840, Henry West, a young bachelor from Wilton in Wiltshire was working as a carpenter on the top of the station lantern. A violent gust of wind tore off the roof of the lantern carrying it over the station house to the other side. Poor Mr West was found in a trench, 200 feet from the station house.

We were in town to sort out holiday clothes for son number 2 and a few other errands. Had to delay the trip until the afternoon due to the heavy rain this morning.

Off to do another litter pick for the parents' association tomorrow morning so hoping that it will stay dry for us.