Part 1: Lancing Carriage Works Firemen: Mapping the Memories of the Carriage Works

The Industrial Heart of Lancing: Mapping the Memories of the Carriage Works

The Lancing Carriage Works was more than just a factory; it was a 66-acre world that defined our village for generations. Following the wonderful 180th-anniversary display at the station, I’ve been digging into the "human side" of the Works—the faces, the families, and the stories that still echo through the Parish Hall and local history groups.

Mapping the Site

To understand the scale, we have to look at it from above. This aerial photograph (attributed to Brian Prevett) shows the sheer size of the Southern Railway Works.

• The site spanned 66 acres, housing massive carriage and paint shops.

Courtesy Brian Pevett

• At its peak, it employed over 1,500 people, many of whom arrived daily from Brighton on the famous "Lancing Belle" workers' train.

• The "saw-tooth" rooflines were designed to flood the workshops with natural light for the skilled craftsmen below.

The Guardians: The Works Fire Brigade

Fire was a constant anxiety on a site filled with timber and flammable spirits. Thanks to Peter Matten, we have a glimpse of the men who kept the village safe.

• The Early Days: An older photo shows the horse-drawn "Alliance" fire appliance, a reminder of the era when steam and horsepower worked side-by-side.

• The Faces of the 1950s: In a later group shot, we find William Jack Warr (standing third from left, back row). For years, many in the village believed this was his son, John Warr, who was such a prominent Lancing character. While John is fondly remembered as a founding member of the Lancing Naval Club in Tower Road (where he helped re-erect a salvaged military Nissen Hut), it was his father, William, who carried on the family's dedicated service as a Carriage Works Fireman.

Courtesy Peter Matten

 Can You Help Identify These Faces? Lancing Carriage Works Fire Brigade

I recently came across this fantastic photograph of the Lancing Carriage Works Fire Brigade. These were the men responsible for protecting the massive 15-acre site, which was a maze of timber, paint, and industrial machinery.

We know that William Jack Warr is standing third from the left in the back row, but the other faces remain a mystery.

We are looking for your help:

• Do you recognise a grandfather, father, or uncle in this line-up?

• Do you have stories of the Fire Brigade’s drills or their role during the war years?

• Was your relative one of the 1,500+ people employed at the Works during its peak?

The Lancing History Group did a magnificent job commemorating the 180th anniversary of the station last year. I would love to build on that local pride by putting names to these faces and recording the personal memories that go with them.

Please leave a comment below or get in touch if you have any information!

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Observations on the New Photographs

• The Horse-Drawn Appliance: This image likely dates from the very early 20th century or late Victorian era. The firemen are wearing the classic brass-style helmets, which were designed to deflect falling debris. You can see the word "ALLIANCE" on the side of the vehicle—likely referring to the insurance company that would have funded or branded the brigade's equipment at the time.

• The Crowds: The presence of onlookers in hats and the general "parade" feel suggests this might have been a public demonstration or a local celebration, perhaps even the opening of a new section of the Works.

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From the Works to the Naval Club

Interestingly, the photos were shared by Peter Matten, who received them from John Warr himself. Beyond his service with the brigade, John was a key figure at the Lancing Naval Club. Did you know the original club building was a Nissen Hut salvaged from a Sussex military base and rebuilt on Tower Road by John and his committee in the 1950s?

If you have memories of the Naval Club in those early days, or if you remember John from his time there, we would love to hear from you.

Life in the Shadow of the Sheds

"For the families of Bessborough Terrace, the Carriage Works wasn't just a place of employment—it was the view from the front door. The terrace was the heart of a vibrant railway community, housing dynasties like the Warr family, where eight children shared a home in the shadow of the workshops.

Security and safety were paramount in a site filled with timber and machinery. This led to the formation of the Lancing Works Fire Brigade. Thanks to Tina Russell, we know that her grandad [Name] Warr served in this elite crew; the family still treasures his original brass fireman’s helmet, a gleaming symbol of the men who stood watch over the village's industrial engine.
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The Finishing Touch and the Secret Shop

While the rhythmic clanging of the smiths and the hiss of the steam dominated the main sheds, a different kind of precision was at play in the Upholstery Shop. This was where the "luxury" of the Southern Railway was born. It was a world of heavy leather, horsehair padding, and the distinctive scent of fresh textiles.

Women like Angela Thorne’s mother were the guardians of this craft. Initially tasked with stitching the plush, first-class interiors that made Lancing-built carriages famous for their comfort, their roles took a dramatic turn as the 1940s arrived.

As the war intensified, the "Finishing Touch" was replaced by a "Secret Service." The skilled hands that once worked on armchair comforts were repurposed for the "Hush-Hush Shop." Here, behind closed doors and under the strict veil of the Official Secrets Act, the women of Lancing contributed to the national war effort—manufacturing components for projects like the Airspeed Horsa gliders.

These photos, kindly shared by Angela, provide a rare and intimate glimpse into that transition—from the peaceful craftsmanship of the railway to the clandestine bravery of the home front.

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courtesy Stephen Hardy

The Industrial Valley

In this remarkable photograph from the Stephen Hardy collection, we see the sheer scale of the Lancing 'canyon.' Stacks of wheel tyres and heavy components dominate the foreground, but look up: the Lancing Clump stands watch on the hillside. This image perfectly captures the stark contrast between the industrial muscle of the 'Sheds' and the rolling peace of the South Downs.

The Sawtooth Skyline

"A second view looks across the yards toward the sprawling workshop roofs. This was a 66-acre city within a village, where the light poured through the sawtooth glass onto the master craftsmen below. It was here that Stephen’s father and his colleagues turned raw steel and timber into the pride of the Southern Railway."

The Draughtsman’s Final View On 16 July 1964, Alan Hardy stood at his office window for the last time. After a career that began as a Rivet Lad in 1941, he had risen to become a draughtsman in the Drawing Office. These two photographs—one looking toward the Lancing Clump and the other across the busy yards—were his final act of documentation. They capture a moment of transition, not just for one man, but for a community that had lived and breathed the railway for generations.

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Voices from the Works

I’ve been "pinching" some wonderful chatter from the Lancing History group (with thanks to Bev Pettiford and others) to share the everyday magic of the place:

• Open Day Magic: Bev Pettiford recalls her dad, Bill Jones, a furnaceman for 14 years, lifting her up to sound the engine's warning horn.

• A "Foamy" Souvenir: Trevor McInnes remembers the Trimmers cutting out scraps of foam for children to take home during the 1960s open days.

• The Eerie Silence: Graham Funnell describes visiting the works just after its 1965 closure, noting it felt as though the 1,500 workers had simply "gone to lunch" and never returned.

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Can You Help?

The hunt for memories continues!

• Do you recognise any other faces in the Fire Brigade photos?

• Do you have memories of the Lancing Naval Club or the sound of the Works' hooter?

• Have you seen the photo collections at the back of the Parish Hall?

Please leave a comment below or share your stories. Let's keep the memory of the "factory in a garden" alive! 

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The Veterans who Built the Works

Long before the 1960s Open Days, the Works was staffed by men like Charles Thomas Meads. A veteran of eight years' service in India with the 1st Royal Sussex Regiment, Charles spent nearly two decades as a fireman at the Lancing Carriage Works.

Courtesy Marilyn James

When he passed away in 1937, his funeral was a true railwayman's send-off, attended by the Chief Officer and his fellow firemen from the brigade. His life, moving from Southampton Street in Brighton to Monks Close in Lancing, mirrors the journey of many families who made our village their own.

FORMER LANCING FIREMAN

Death of Mr C. T. Meads

A member of the Southern Railway Fire Brigade for nearly twenty years, Mr Charles Thomas Meads died at Lancing this week aged 56.

Born at Brighton, Mr Meads served with the 1st Royal Sussex Regiment in India for eight years before spending three years at Brighton Railway Works. From Brighton he came to Lancing Railway Works, where he worked and served as a fireman for nearly twenty years.

Ill-health prevented him from working after March, 1936, and he came to live at 47, Monks-close, where he died on Monday. Railwaymen attended the funeral at North Lancing Church yesterday (Friday), including members of the fire brigade and the chief officer of the Lancing Fire Brigade (Mr W. R. Dunn).

Category	Detail
Military Service	8 Years with the 1st Royal Sussex Regiment in India.
Railway Career	3 years at Brighton Works; 20 years at Lancing Carriage Works.
Special Role	Veteran member of the Southern Railway Fire Brigade.
Retirement	March 1936 (due to ill health).
Last Residence	47 Monks Close, Lancing.
Final Resting Place	North Lancing Church.

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Author’s Note: "History is often closer than we think. While researching Charles Meads, I discovered he spent his final days at 47 Monks Close—just a stone's throw from where I sit writing this today. It is a poignant reminder that the names in these old paybooks weren't just workers; they were our neighbours whose lives shaped the very streets we live in."

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Defending the Works: The Men Behind the Guns

During World War II, the quiet "factory in a garden" became a fortress. This powerful image [below] from Kevin Gordon shows an anti-aircraft gun crew positioned among the tracks, ready to defend the 66-acre site from air raids.

Thanks to John Maple, we can put names to these brave faces. John believes the man at the rear of the gun (left) was his father, and the man standing on the gun was a fellow named Dixy Dean. Interestingly, Dixy was still working at the Carriage Works in the early 1960s as a charge hand—a testament to the lifelong bonds formed at the site.

Imagine the stories Dixy must have told his young apprentices about the days when he traded his tools for a seat on that gun!

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Dixy Dean: From the Gun to the Shop Floor

This "Then and Now" segment highlights how the Lancing Carriage Works community remained steadfast through total war and into the modern era:

• 1940s: The Defender: During the war, Dixy was literally on the front lines of the village, perched atop an anti-aircraft gun to protect the 66-acre estate and its vital production of Horsa glider parts.

• 1960s: The Mentor: Fast-forward twenty years, and he had transitioned into the role of Charge Hand. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing a specific group of workers and ensuring the quality of the carriage repairs.

• The Bridge: For apprentices like John Maple in the 60s, Dixy wasn't just a boss; he was a living link to the "fortress" years of the Works.
  
  

  

  Courtesy Kevin Gordon
  Defending the 66-Acre Site: You can see an anti-aircraft gun crew (likely Home Guard or a dedicated army unit) positioned directly on the railway tracks. The massive scale of the sheds in the background of the aerial photo shows why such heavy protection was necessary—it was a sprawling target for the Luftwaffe.

  
  

• The Mystery Engine: The presence of an LMS Stanier 8F at Lancing is a classic "War Department" clue.

  National Effort: These engines were built for heavy freight and troop movements across the whole UK, proving that Lancing wasn't just a local concern, but a key player in the national rail network during the crisis.

  The High Command: The presence of senior military officers in the foreground suggests this might have been an official inspection or a demonstration of the site's readiness.

  
  

While many of us remember the Works for its celebratory Open Days and the 'foamy' gifts from the Trimmers, it is easy to forget that this 66-acre site was once a high-stakes military target. To understand the true history of the Carriage Works, we have to look back to the 1940s, when the 'factory in a garden' became a fortress. The machinery used to build carriages was pivoted to produce Horsa gliders and Bailey bridges, and the tracks that carried commuters were lined with anti-aircraft guns to fend off the Luftwaffe.

Name	Department / Role	Historical Connection
Charles Thomas Meads	Fire Brigade (20 Years) / Rolling Stock Repair	Veteran of the 1st Royal Sussex Regiment; long-term Lancing resident.
John Warr	Works Fire Brigade	Founding member of the Lancing Naval Club; helped re-erect the Nissen Hut on Tower Road.
Dixy Dean	Wartime Gunner / Charge Hand (1960s)	Defended the works from air raids and later mentored decades of apprentices.
Mr. Maple (Senior)	Anti-Aircraft Gun Crew / Fireman	Part of the wartime defence team at the 66-acre site.
Mr. Maple (The Younger)	Freshbrook School Caretaker	Likely the grandson of the original fireman; continued the family tradition of local service.
Bill (William) Jones	Furnaceman (14 Years)	Remembered by daughter Bev for sounding the engine horns on Open Days.
Clive Stevens' Father	Coach Finisher (24 Years)	A highly skilled craftsman whose Lancing training took him as far as Canada.
Terry Langham	Works Personnel	Remembered by many as a "lovely friend" and a mainstay of the Works community.

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Correction & Family Update: Since publishing, I have been contacted by Julie Bevan, the granddaughter of the Fireman pictured. She has clarified that the man in the photo is William Jack Warr, not his son John as previously thought. William was the dedicated Carriage Works Fireman, while his son John Warr is fondly remembered for his many years running the Naval Club next door in Tower Road. My thanks to Julie for helping us get the family tree right!
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The Trades of the Lancing Carriage Works

The records categorise staff into specific grades, showing a clear hierarchy from entry-level "Shop Lads" to master craftsmen.

• The Master Craftsmen:

  • Bodymakers: These men were the elite, responsible for the structural integrity of the railway carriages.

  • Wagon Makers: Skilled workers focused on the heavy-duty freight fleet.

  • Finishers & Polishers: The tradesmen who ensured the interiors of the passenger coaches were of the highest standard.

  • Trimmers: Responsible for the upholstery and seating—the department is remembered for giving foam scraps to local children.

  • Metal Machinists & Turners: The precision workers in the machine shops who fabricated the metal components.

• The Site Maintenance & Safety:

  • Electricians & Gasfitters: Vital for the lighting and heating of both the workshops and the carriages themselves.

  • Crane Drivers & Lifters: Essential for moving massive carriage bodies through the "saw-tooth" sheds.

  • Firemen: Like Charles Thomas Meads, these men were often repairers by day and the site's primary defence by night.

• The Next Generation:

  • Shop Lads & Messengers: The entry-point for 14-year-olds starting their journey. Many, like John Maple, would start here and work their way up to become Charge Hands like Dixy Dean.

  • Apprentices: Listed specifically as "Painter's Apprentice" or "Fitter's Apprentice," showing the formalised training program.
    

A Day in the Life: The Specialist Crafts of Lancing

To understand the 66-acre site, we have to look at the specific skills required to build a "village on wheels".

The Trimmer (Upholsterer)

The Trimmer was the master of comfort. They worked with horsehair, springs, and heavy fabrics to create the plush seating for first-class coaches and the practical benches for third-class.

• The "Foamy" Connection: In the later years, as materials changed, Trimmers used large sheets of foam. As you’ve noted, the off-cuts were often gifted to local children during Open Days—a memory that still lingers in the village today.

The Oiler and Greaser

Often a role for younger workers or those starting their career, the Oiler was essential for safety.

• The Task: They walked the length of the trains, often in the pits beneath the tracks, to ensure that every axle box was filled with oil and every moving part was greased.

• The Consequence: Without the Oiler, the friction of the heavy carriages would lead to "hot boxes" and potential fires—making them the first line of defence for the rolling stock.

The Body Maker

These were the senior craftsmen of the "Sheds".

• The Task: They were essentially high-end carpenters and metalworkers combined. They built the wooden and steel skeletons of the carriages, ensuring they were strong enough to withstand the vibrations of high-speed travel.

• The Skill: A Body Maker had to understand how different woods like oak and teak reacted to the coastal Sussex weather.

The Finisher and Polisher

While the Body Maker built the shell, the Finisher made it beautiful.

• The Task: They fitted the intricate mahogany panelling, the luggage racks, and the brass window latches.

• The Polish: The "French Polisher" (often listed simply as Polisher) would apply layer upon layer of lacquer to give the carriages that famous deep, glass-like shine that the Southern Railway was known for.

The Lifter

The Lifter’s job was a feat of industrial strength.

• The Task: Using massive overhead cranes or heavy jacks, they would "lift" the entire body of a carriage off its wheels (the bogies) so that repairs could be made to the underside.

The Precision: This required incredible teamwork and communication to ensure the multi-ton carriage remained level and safe.

Courtesy of Stephen Hardy
While these tools were used to build the physical carriages in the 'Sheds,' they also built the community's social foundation. The pride and union solidarity seen in the Hardy collection eventually led to the establishment of the Railwaymen's Association—a site that would later evolve into 'The Place' (discussed in Part 9).

The Master's Touch: A Tradesman’s Tool Kit

To understand the precision of the Lancing Works, one only has to look at the personal toolkits of the men who worked there. Steven Hardy recently shared photos of his late father’s tool chests—a smaller one crafted during his apprenticeship to prove his competence, and a larger one built as his skills grew.

Courtesy of Stephen Hardy

These weren't just boxes; they were a tradesman's life. In an era where every employee had to provide their own kit, these chests housed everything from hand-made chisels to wartime 'lease-lend' technology like the pump-action screwdriver. They are a poignant reminder that while the 'Sheds' were vast, they were powered by individual skill and personal pride.

Courtesy of Stephen Hardy

1. The Southern Railway (SR) "Railway Service" Badge

The brass and enamel oval badge is particularly significant.

• The Wartime "Shield": These were issued during WWII (starting around 1939-1940) to men in "Reserved Occupations."

• The Purpose: Railwaymen were vital to the war effort but didn't wear military uniforms. These badges were worn on civilian clothes to prevent them from being handed "white feathers" or accused of avoiding military service.

• The Design: Each company had its own locomotive on top. The Southern Railway version is a rare survivor of that "Malachite Green" era before nationalisation.

• Security: Most had a serial number on the back registered to the individual, meaning it doubled as a security pass for the Works.

2. The N.U.R. "Workers of the World Unite" Pin

The National Union of Railwaymen (N.U.R.) badge is the "social link" to your blog.

• The Symbolism: It usually features a red flag over a globe with a handshake, symbolising international solidarity.

• The Motto: "Workers of the World Unite" is a classic socialist rallying cry, reflecting the strong political identity of the workforce in the mid-20th century.

• The Social Link: It was the N.U.R. members who drove the creation of the Railwaymen's Association on South Street. This badge is the "membership card" to the culture that eventually became The Green Turtle and The Place
  

  

  Courtesy Stephen Hardy

  
  

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The Moppett Family Connection

While exploring the 1942 ledgers, an entry for an "H. Moppett" caught the eye of Madeleine Slatford. This led to a fascinating look at her grandfather, Alfred William (Bill) Moppett, who was a vital part of the railway works' "Steel Ring".

• Trade: Bill was a skilled Acetylene Cutter, a trade that frequently brought him from Brighton to the Lancing Coachworks.

• War Service: Beyond his trade, he served with the 25th Sussex Battalion (2nd S.R.) Home Guard, essentially the Southern Railway's own defence force.

The Two Moppetts: While we found H. Moppett in the paybooks, Bill’s own service is immortalised through his Home Guard certificate and group photograph.

Alfred William Moppett middle row first on the left in the ranks (not counting the man standing on his own to the side),

Alfred William Moppett certificate of Proficiency

This certificate of proficiency for Alfred William (Bill) Moppett offers a rare look at the standards expected of the Southern Railway Home Guard (25th Sussex Battalion).

• Beyond Basic Training: To earn this, Bill had to demonstrate a high level of competence in military drills, weapons handling, and likely the specific protection of railway infrastructure.

• The Railway Guard: As part of the 2nd S.R. (Southern Railway) unit, his proficiency was vital; the Lancing and Brighton lines were "Category A" targets for potential sabotage or invasion.

• Professional Discipline: The precision Bill used in his daily trade as an Acetylene Cutter—where a steady hand meant the difference between a clean cut and ruined steel—clearly translated into his military service.

Historical Note: It’s worth noting that the Home Guard wasn’t just "Dad’s Army" in these industrial hubs. Certificates like this were only issued to those who had undergone rigorous training to ensure that if the "Steel Ring" was ever attacked, men like Bill were ready.

Trade Spotlight: The Acetylene Cutter

In our look at the Lancing Works, names like Alfred William (Bill) Moppett stand out for their specialised skills. Bill was an Acetylene Cutter, a role that was as vital as it was physically demanding.

What did the work involve?

• High-Heat Engineering: Using a torch that mixed oxygen and acetylene, Bill worked with a flame reaching 3,000°C to slice through heavy steel chassis and plate metal.

• The "Steel Ring" Role: At the Carriage Works, he would have been responsible for "burning off" rusted rivets and cutting out damaged sections of rail carriages so the repair teams could step in.

• Safety & Skill: It required immense precision; Bill would have worn heavy leather protective gear and dark goggles to shield himself from the intense glare and molten "slag" produced by the cutting process.

A Railway Family Interestingly, the paybook ledgers show another entry for an H. Moppett, listed as a "Labourer to Watchman". This suggests that while Bill was a travelling specialist, the Moppett name was tied to the security and support of the works as well. It’s a classic example of how Lancing’s industry was a family affair.

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The Evolution of a Craftsman: From Copper to Steel

Alfred’s journey reflects the very evolution of the railway itself. Before he was an Acetylene Cutter at Lancing, he had already served a lifetime in metal. During the First World War, he served in the RASC (Royal Army Service Corps) as a Coppersmith, a trade that required delicate precision in shaping the intricate pipework of steam locomotives.

By the 1921 Census, he was a Metal Smith at the Brighton Loco Works (LB&SCR). His eventual move to the high-heat, high-stakes world of acetylene cutting was a natural progression for a master of his craft. It shows that the "Steel Ring" of Lancing wasn't just built on raw strength, but on decades of hard-earned expertise brought over from the old Brighton works.

Bill’s story is a reminder that the men who defended our lines in the 25th Sussex Battalion were the same men whose hands had built and maintained the railway for over a quarter of a century.

Name	Earlier Trade	Lancing/War Trade	Connection
Alfred William (Bill) Moppett	Coppersmith (RASC / Brighton Loco)	Acetylene Cutter / Home Guard	Part 1 (The Steel Ring)

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The Paybook

courtesy Ian Smith

This extract from the Southern Railway pay records (c. 1924–1940) shows the meticulous hand-recording of every Bodymaker, Trimmer, and Shop Lad who passed through the gates. Each signature represents a life dedicated to the craft of the carriage. For many of these men, these ledgers are the only remaining official record of their daily toil in the 'Sheds' that defined our village for generations.

A Family Mystery: Who was A. Meads?

"While searching for Charles Thomas Meads in the 1933 pay records, I came across this entry for A. Meads (No. 1010). We know the Meads were a true railway family, but the handwriting for his specific trade is a bit of a puzzle. It looks like it could be a Finishers Appre.  [Apprentice] Does anyone recognise this name or the handwriting? It would be wonderful to identify another branch of this Lancing family tree."

From Battersea to Lancing: The Stewarts Lane Connection

In the 1938 records, we see some of our local men, like N.J. Stevens and J. Dean, listed under 'Stewarts Lane'. This famous Battersea depot was the London hub for the Southern Railway. Whether they were on temporary loan to help polish the prestigious 'Golden Arrow' carriages or were moving down to Sussex to escape the London soot, it proves that Lancing was a key player in a much larger railway family.

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The names etched into the stone of the Parish Hall memorial are the same names we find in the quiet ink of the Railway Paybooks. From Shop Lads like W. Harman to the veteran Bodymakers, these records prove that the men who defended our country were the same men who built our village, one carriage at a time.

Name on Memorial	Trade in Pay Records (1924-1940)	Historical Context
W. Harman	Shop Lad (Lancing)	Likely started his career as a teenager just as the war began.
C. Carpenter	Metal Machinist	A specialist in the machine shops, essential for carriage fabrication.
H. Clist	Labourer	Part of the vital force that kept the 66-acre site operational.
H. Dray	Bodymaker's Help	Assisted the master craftsmen in building carriage skeletons.
W. Curnock	Trimmer	Part of the upholstery team famous for the 'foamy' off-cuts.
D. Dorey	Cleaner	Responsible for the pristine finish of the Southern Railway fleet.

As we look at the poppies resting against the Lancing Carriage Works War Memorial, we see more than just a list of soldiers. We see the Shop Lads, the Machinists, and the Trimmers who were once the lifeblood of our village.

These men, whose names were recorded in the same ink as Charles Meads and the Maple family, left their benches to defend the very 'Fortress' they helped build. Though the Works fell silent in 1965, the memory of their service—both at the workbench and on the battlefield—remains an indelible part of Lancing’s 180-year railway history.

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Marilyn James is researching the life of her Grandfather Charles Thomas Meads
If you can help contact Marilyn on her Facebook page

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The Living Legacy of Lancing Station

As we look back on 180 years of Lancing Railway Station, it is easy to focus on the bricks, mortar, and the miles of track. But as these stories show, the true history of the Lancing Carriage Works is written in the lives of the people who walked through its gates every morning.

From Charles Thomas Meads and his twenty years of fire service, to Dixy Dean and Mr. Maple defending the site from the tracks during the war, these men were the heartbeat of our village. They were the same men who founded our social clubs, looked after our schools, and raised families who still call Lancing home today.

The Works may have closed its doors in 1965, but through your shared memories—the "to-and-fro" of stories about Open Days, the "Lancing Belle," and the sound of the hooter—the spirit of the "factory in a garden" lives on.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far. Let's keep these memories moving!
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• Part 1: The Guardians of the Works: Firemen & Veterans (you are here)
  
  Part 1b: Images from the Philip Fry Collection
  
  
• Part 2: The Silent Partners: Women & Youth (1941–1945)
  
  Part 2b: The Secret of the "Hush, Hush" shop
  
  
• Part 3: Mr Warr and the Lancing Railway Fire Brigade
  
  
• Part 4: The Bofors Crew: From Shop Floor to Front Line
  
  
• Part 4b: The Shingle Skeletons - A prequel to the front line
  
  
• Part 5: The Lancing Squad – Precision on the Front Line
   
• Part 6: Bomb Alley- The day the FW -190s came to Lancing 
  
  
• Part 7: The Invisible Colony 
  
  Part 8: The Final Reveal – The Skeletons in the Garden
  
  
• Part 9: From the 'Running Man' to the 'Rocket Dance'
  
  
• Part 10: The Pegasus Bridge Hero: Denis Edwards

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The Lancing Carriage Works Surname Index (1924–1940) Below is the index of names transcribed from the Southern Railway pay ledgers. This list represents the thousands of men—from Machinists like W. Packham to Shop Lads like J. Dean—who kept the 66-acre site running through peace and war.

A – C	D – G	H – M	P – Z
Adlam	Dallern	Hall	Packham
Alderson	Dan	Hansford	Page
Allfre	Dann	Harmer	Paine
Anderson	Dart	Harriott	Parker
Armstrong	Deadman	Harvey	Patching
Ashdown	Dean	Harwood	Pearce
Bailey	Denness	Heasman	Pettit
Baker	Denyer	Hemsley	Pollinger
Banfield	Dewey	Heritage	Potter
Batchelor	Dilloway	Humphrey	Richards
Beach	Ditch	Jacobs	Richardson
Bishop	Dunn	Johnson	Rogers
Bolingbroke	Edwards	Jones	Savage
Bolton	Elliott	Judge	Scutt
Booker	Elphick	Knight	Simmonds
Brand	Emerson	Langridge	Smith
Brewer	English	Long	Standen
Broughton	Everitt	Maple	Stewart
Butcher	Fieldwick	Martin	Taylor
Calvert	Finnemore	MEADS	Thirtle
Carter	Freeman	Mitchell	Tyler
Chapman	Frost	Molloy	Vergo
Charlwood	Gander	Monnery	Walker
Chatfield	Gasson	Moore	Warr
Churchill	Gladman	Morgan	Yeandle
Collins	Goldsmith	Mullard	Young

Surname	Trade/Connection to Lancing
Hale	General Labourer & Painter
Hardy	Master Carriage Construction & Tool Collection
Harvey	Carriage Works Family Heritage
Hillary	Body Maker & Joiner
Hudson	Shop Floor Supervisor
Miles	Master Blacksmith

This project is a collaborative effort, combining local memories from our community with digital research tools to cross-reference National Archives and historical records.

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Part 3: The Guardians of the Works: Mr Warr and the Lancing Railway Fire Brigade

 

🚒 The Guardians of the Works: Mr Warr and the Lancing Railway Fire Brigade

"Historical image of the Lancing Carriage Works Fire Brigade courtesy of Southeast Communities Rail Partnership. We are grateful for their work in preserving these vital snapshots of our village's industrial past."

In the heyday of the Lancing Carriage Works, the site was a labyrinth of timber, paint shops, and flammable materials. To protect this industrial powerhouse, a dedicated Works Fire Brigade was formed—an elite group of men who were as highly trained as any municipal force.

A Footplate Legacy

Among these guardians was Mr W.J. Warr. Living at Bessborough Terrace, he was a fireman in the truest sense—navigating both the steam engines on the tracks and the safety of the works itself. Being part of the Works Fire Brigade was a badge of immense pride; these men were the first line of defence for Lancing’s biggest employer.

Mr Warr Snr eventually moved from the heat of the works to the leadership of the village, serving as a highly respected Chairman of Lancing Parish Council during the pivotal post-war years of the late 1940s and 50s.

"A Special Person to Know"

I had the great privilege of knowing the younger Mr Warr and even tended his garden for a few years. He was a truly special person—highly thought of by everyone in our community.

There is a fascinating irony in the family history: while the father dedicated his life to the steam and safety of the railway, the son went on to work for the well-known Dr Beeching. To navigate the high-pressure world of the "Beeching Axe" era while remaining such a kind, grounded, and respected neighbour is a testament to his character.

"Tending Mr Warr's garden gave me a unique perspective on a man who was a pillar of Lancing. Whether he was discussing village life or his time in the professional world, he always maintained that 'common touch' and a deep love for our village."

Why We Remember

The Carriage Works closed in 1965, and the steam has long since cleared from the Lancing horizon. But through families like the Warrs, the spirit of that era lives on. They remind us that Lancing wasn't just built on bricks and mortar, but on the character of the people who worked the shifts, tended the gardens, and chaired the meetings.

💬 Over to You: Do you remember the "Warrs" of Bessborough Terrace? Or perhaps you recall the Fire Brigade drills at the Works? We’d love to hear your memories in the comments below.

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A Community Note: While I spend my time digging through the dusty ledgers and paybooks, groups like the Keep Lancing Lovely team are doing wonderful work on the ground. If you find yourself at Lancing Station, do take a moment to look at the heritage displays in the old ticket office. It’s heartening to see the legacy of the Carriage Works being kept alive both online and on our platform.
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• Part 1: The Guardians of the Works: Firemen & Veterans 
  
  
• Part 1b: Images from the Philip Fry Collection
  
  
• Part 2: The Silent Partners: Women & Youth (1941–1945)
  
  Part 2b: The Secret of the "Hush Hush" Shop
   
• Part 3: Mr Warr and the Lancing Railway Fire Brigade (You are here)
  
  
• Part 4:The  Bofors Crew: From Shop Floor to Front Line 
  
  
• Part 4b The Shingle Skeletons - A Prequel to the Front Line
  
  
• Part 5: The Lancing Squad – Precision on the Front Line
  
  
• Part 6: From Railway Sheds to Manhattan Furniture 
  
  
• Part 7: The Saw-Tooth Skyline – 2006 to Today
  
  
• Part 8: The Final Reveal – The Skeletons in the Garden
  
  
• Part 9: From the 'Running Man' to the 'Rocket Dance'

• Part 10: The Pegasus Bridge Hero: Denis Edwards

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This project is a collaborative effort, combining local memories from our community with digital research tools to cross-reference National Archives and historical records.

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Welcome

 

Welcome to the New-Look Lancing Village Memories!

I have recently been updating the blog to make it easier for people to find and share the wonderful history of our village. Whether you are a lifelong resident of North Lancing, a former South Lancing neighbour living abroad, or just curious about our local heritage, I am glad you’re here.

Why This Blog Exists

Lancing Village Memories is more than just a website; it’s a digital time capsule. My goal is to preserve the personal "life and times" of our community—the stories that aren't always found in history books but live on in the memories of those who were there.

We Need Your Stories and Photos!

A community archive is only as good as the memories within it. To help this collection grow and reach more people, I am looking for:

• Personal Recollections: Memories of local shops, school days, or village events.

• Vintage Photographs: Images of Lancing streets, landmarks, or family life through the decades.

• Feedback: If a post sparks a memory for you, please let me know!
  
  

  

  copyright Ray Hamblett
  The former cinema now as modern flats 

  
  

How to contribute: If you have a story to tell or a photo to share, please reach out. You can email me directly at ray.hamblett@gmail.com. Every contribution helps preserve a piece of Lancing’s unique identity for future generations.

Thank you for being part of this journey into our past.

— Ray Hamblett

Copyright Ray Hamblett
View of North Road from the roof of the Luxor building

copyright Ray Hamblett
The Railway Public House 2025

The History of Lancing Schools by George Forrest

This is a page given to me by the late George Forrest, He set out the development of Schools in Lancing

History of Freshbrook School.

1859 - There was no South Lancing School. The only school in Lancing was North Lancing School. Children had to walk to this school.

1914 - There was a new school in North Road. It was called Lancing Council School. It had three classrooms, a corridor and a cloakroom. There were 61 children on the books.

1930 - More children attended the school. The number of children increased to 114. The school was extended; there were four new classrooms.

1932 There was an official opening of the extended school. This is now the Year 3 building.

1935 The school was very overcrowded. Oakfield School opened. It was called Irene Avenue. The senior children transferred.

1936 The school numbers went up. There were 380 children. A new hall was built in the playground. This is the hall that we have our PE lessons in today. It was not used for PE at the time. The school was very crowded, so it was used for two classrooms.

1938, The new infant school was built. This is where Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are taught today.

1939 Two schools from London were transferred to this school. They were war evacuees. This made the school very crowded. The Lancing children were taught in the classroom in the morning, and the evacuee children were taught in the afternoon.

1950, A canteen was built on the field. The children were served school dinners at lunchtime. This building was demolished in the 1990s. It was where the staff car park is currently situated.

1958 Miss Cates retired. She had been the headmistress for 26 years.

The school has changed a lot since then. The school became known as South Lancing School. Then it changed to Freshbrook School.

The uniform changed from the colours of green and yellow to red.

There are now mobile classrooms in the playground, and a nursery has been added.

In 2008 the school will officially close. The children of South Lancing will attend "Seaside Primary School".

Sources:

• HistoryFreshbrookSchool-GeorgeForrest (1).png

Copyright Ray Hamblett
North Lancing School

Copyright Ray Hamblett
FreshBrook Primary School
Formerly South Lancing School

A compilation of Lancing Village memories

 

Lancing Memories: The "Lost" Tapes & Stories Rediscovered

Compilation 1

The Village Ecosystem

• Focus: How Lancing functioned after the war—the market gardens, the railway works, and the "Ducks" on the beach.

Compilation 2

Life Through George Forrest’s Eyes

• Focus: A personal, biographical look at village life, featuring George’s "quite a lot to say" on everything from smoking to school days.

Compilation 3

Gossip, Mischief, and Hidden Scars

• Focus: The legendary local characters like "Lord Lancing," the "autopilot" coal horses, and the touching hidden histories of our teachers.
  

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• George Forrest: Our "leading man" for this series. Whether he was jumping over gates onto giant snakes or experimenting with "gutter tobacco," George’s memories are the heartbeat of these new recordings.
• Sid Lisher & His Horses: The ultimate Lancing "autopilot." Sid could catch a nap on his coal cart while his horses perfectly navigated the Sompting Road, even knowing exactly where to turn into the stables.
• The Mysterious "Lord Lancing": A man who brought a touch of the West End to West Sussex. Dressed in a boater hat and striped blazer, he was a village fixture that everyone remembered.
• The Teachers (Miss Humphrey & Miss Lappham): Behind the strict classrooms of North Lancing and Irene Avenue were deeply human stories—from secret crayon drawings of rabbits to the quiet, lifelong shadows of the Great War.

It has been a bit of a labour of love lately at the Lancing Memories project. After discovering that 55 of our precious audio and blog files were accidentally "Restricted," I’ve spent the last few hours unlocking the vault. Every single file is now set to "Anyone with the link," making our village history more accessible than ever.

But I didn't want to just reopen the doors; I wanted to bring the stories to life in a new way.

A New Way to Experience Our Past

Using the latest technology, I’ve created a series of "Community Deep Dives." These aren't just readings—they are vibrant, roundtable discussions that piece together memories from across our entire collection.

What you’ll hear in this new collection:

• The Schoolyard & The Classroom: Tales of the strict (but deeply human) teachers at North Lancing and Irene Avenue, from the much-feared Mr Russell to the rabbit-drawing Miss Humphrey.

• Wartime Lancing: The "mushrooms of dust" from the 1941 air raids, the "Ducks" (DUKWs) on the beach, and the secret signals of the Home Guard.

• The Characters of the Village: Meet the legendary George Forrest—a man who always had "quite a lot to say"—and the "autopilot" coal horses of S. Lisher that knew the route better than the driver.

• Mischief & Mayhem: From the "Great Tobacco Experiment" (which ended in a lot of coughing!) to the boys dodging chores to watch the steam trains at the footbridge.

Why It Matters

These memories capture the transition of Lancing from rural farmland to the bustling community we know today. It’s a nostalgic look at the Luxor Cinema, the Railway Works, and the local shops that defined our lives.

Whether you remember the smell of the coal carts or you're a new neighbour curious about our "Centre," these stories are for you.

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"Did you know Sid Lisher’s horses could navigate the Sompting Road while the driver was fast asleep? You can still see the 'dip' in the curb today where they turned for home. Listen to the latest 'Deep Dive' to hear George Forrest tell the full story!"

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A Final Note on the Lancing Memories Project

This collection represents more than just a series of recordings; it is a digital preservation of the "chaotic humanity" that defined our village from the 1930s through the 1960s. By bringing these 53 sources together, we have uncovered a unique "social ecosystem" where every memory—from the market gardens to the railway works—is interconnected.

Through these "Deep Dives," we have rediscovered:

• The Resilience of a Generation: How the quiet shadows of the Great War shaped our teachers, and how the village mobilised everything from saucepans to pennies to support the effort in the second.

• The Spirit of Childhood: The freedom of the chalk pits and the Widewater, balanced against the strict discipline of the classroom.

• The Local Legends: The "autopilot" coal horses of Sompting Road, the eccentric "Lord Lancing," and the endless mischief of George Forrest and his friends.

While the landscape of Lancing has evolved from rural farmland to the bustling centre we know today, the spirit of the people remains captured here. We hope these conversations offer you a nostalgic window into a bygone era and remind us all that the most valuable history is often found in the smallest, "meaty" details of our neighbours' lives.

Thank you for listening and keeping these memories alive.

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Troubleshooting Tip: If you are listening on a mobile phone and the audio doesn't play immediately, try opening the link in Google Chrome. If it still feels 'restricted,' simply long-press the link and select 'Open in New Tab' to join the conversation!

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Help us preserve the past If you enjoyed listening to these vibrant personal memoirs, please leave a star rating below. Your feedback helps us understand which historical anecdotes from the 1930s to the 1960s resonate most with the village today. It is a simple, quiet way to honour the legacy of contributors like George Forrest and others who shared their stories to keep the spirit of Lancing alive.

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The "Identify a Detail" Invitation: "If you recognised a specific face in a story or remember a shop name we might have missed, please leave a comment. Your 'meaty' details help us keep the Centre of these memories accurate for the next generation."

The "Family Connection" Prompt: "Was your father or grandfather one of the Railway Works or Market Garden workers? A simple 'My Dad worked there' is a wonderful way to honour their legacy."

The "George Forrest" Tribute: "George had 'quite a lot to say' to keep our history alive; we’d love to hear your own small 'cheeky' memory of Lancing life too."

Exploring the Memories: A Guide to Our Village History

 

Exploring the Memories: A Guide to Our Village History

If you are new to the blog, welcome! We have been busy organising decades of local memories so you can find the stories that matter most to you. Whether you grew up in the nurseries, played on the Ring, or worked at the Railway Works, there is something here for everyone.

🚩 The "Hidden" Landmarks

Lancing is full of secrets beneath the soil. Did you know about the Romano-Celtic Temple on the Ring?

• [Read about the Temple and see the 1828 diagrams here] 

🏫 School Days & Playground Games

From the "walking school" migrations to the frightening air raid shelters, our contributors have captured the true spirit of 1940s and 50s education.

• The "Mustard Water" Mystery: Was it real or a legend? [Link to Alan’s story]

• Veranda Classrooms: The early days of South Lancing Infants. [Link to the Tower Road memory]

🚜 A Village of Glass & Gardens

Before the housing estates, Lancing was a sea of glasshouses and orchards.

• The Boundstone Lane Nurseries: Discover the history of the Marshall and Grover families. [Link to Alan’s account]

• From Grapes to Tomatoes: Why Sussex lost its wine industry in the late 1800s. [Link to the agriculture section]

🚂 Railways, Shops & Steam

• The Works: Memories of the Churchill Industrial Estate and the men who worked the engines.

• The High Street: Who remembers the child-sized baskets at Woolworths or the horse-drawn milk floats? [Link to the 1950s visitor story]

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🔍 How to search this blog

On the foot of this page, you will see our new Label Cloud. You can click on any name or street—like "Sompting Road" or "Luxor Cinema"—to see every story related to that topic.

Story 11 from Paul Kidger

Hear Paul's story The two of Paul's messages combined

Paul Kidger replies to the question from Paul Bridle

Refuelling the DUKW and the Mermaid Kiosk

Yes, I remember the DUKW at Lancing and the method of refuelling....someone would carry a 5-gallon drum of petrol from the local garage and just tip it in. Struck me as very crude. Was it painted yellow? We did go out on it once or twice. There were 2 at Worthing painted Red, White and blue for coronation year and maybe one was named Princess Anne.

At the side of the Mermaid Beach cafe was a kiosk which, at one time, was run by an enterprising young lady. I think that she used to ride a motorcycle, which was guaranteed to turn a few heads.

Monk’s Farm: Petrol, Floods, and the High Tide

In the early '60s, I used to work at Monk's Farm petrol station during holidays and at weekends. The owner, Mr Lyons, also ran the beach garage for a short while. His brother Alf used to run a driving school. I remember the foundations for that station being dug and seeing them flood at high tide. That part of Lancing, just North of the police station, is actually below the high water level, even though it is about a mile from the sea.

Monk’s Farm: Petrol, Floods, and the High Tide

My own driving lessons were courtesy of Mill Road Driving School. That was run by another enterprising young lady who once owned the nurseries, which were then redeveloped into the Norbury estate of bungalows. She was one of the regular dog walkers who would pass by the rear of our house in Ring Rd. One old dear had a dog called Kiltie. I mistook her summoning her dog, and she was henceforth known to us as the 'Filthy Lady'. Another dog walker would come past at 1 pm, and I called her the 1 o'clock jump after the Benny Goodman hit of the '40s. Both parents collapsed with laughter. It wasn't until many years later did I realised the significance of my comment

Dungo Barton’s Path and the Chalkpit

Pat Barton used to run the horse riding stables at the top of Mill Rd. Since he used to sell horse muck as garden fertiliser, he was known to us as Dungo Barton, and the path through the chalkpit, which he used with his horse and cart, was Dungo's path. The Barton farm is no more, fallen down and totally overgrown...well,l it was a few years ago. I was at school with Jane Barton, his daughter.

Oak Panels and the Legend of 'Lord Lancing'

Regarding the Corner House, before it became the Potter and an eatery, it had lovely oak panelling in all bars.

Does anyone remember the slightly eccentric 'Lord Lancing' who would cycle around the town wearing a boater, striped blazer and flannels, probably a monocle and cigarette in a holder?

Paul Kidger

Editors note

The DUKW, affectionately nicknamed the "Duck," is a unique six-wheeled amphibious truck that played a critical role in military history before becoming a beloved tourist novelty.

 * Inventor and Design: The DUKW was a modification of the General Motors Company (GMC) CCKW military truck. Its design was a collaborative effort, primarily led by yacht designer Rod Stephens Jr. of Sparkman & Stephens, along with Dennis Puleston and MIT's Frank W. Speir. The project was developed by the National Defense Research Committee in a remarkably short time (around 38 days) to solve the critical problem of resupplying units during amphibious landings. The name DUKW is a GMC manufacturing code, with D for the design year (1942), U for utility, K for all-wheel drive, and W for dual rear axles.

 * WWII Use: Initially rejected by the military, the DUKW's potential was proven during a storm rescue of a Coast Guard crew. It was finally adopted and first used during the Allied invasion of Sicily (Operation Husky) in 1943. General Dwight D. Eisenhower famously called it "one of the most valuable pieces of equipment produced by the United States during the war." Over 21,000 were built by the end of 1945. They were essential for ferrying troops, ammunition, and supplies directly from ships, past the surf, and onto the shore, circumventing destroyed port facilities. They saw extensive service in every major amphibious operation, including the D-Day landings at Normandy.

 * Peacetime Tourism: After the war, thousands of DUKWs were sold as surplus. Many were adapted for civilian use, but their most enduring legacy became their role as tourist craft. Repainted in bright, cheerful colors, these rugged vehicles were converted for sightseeing tours in waterfront cities all over the world, including Boston, London, Dublin, and along the Wisconsin River. Tourists marvel at the novelty of driving through city streets before the "Duck" seamlessly transitions into a boat, offering a unique, splashy tour experience.

This one was used in Liverpool.

Here's a full history of the DUKW from militaryhistoria.com