Mystery of soldier is solved – but remains under wraps until exhibition

The Parish Heritage Group hoped readers and locals would be able help them discover more about Charles Garrat, one of the 32 names on the parish war memorial. No record could be found of him within the parish census returns or at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission archive.
However, project leader, Peter Seward, said that they have now had some success – but they planned to keep it under wraps until the group’s exhibition is staged later this year.
He said: “Thanks to a lead provided by Phil Wood, who hosts the West Berkshire War Memorials site, the group is confident that the mystery man lived in Shaw and served with the Royal Berkshire Regiment.
“The place of his death however, came as a surprise.
“The group will reveal the true identity of Charles Garrat and the location of his death, when it stages the first of a series of exhibitions later this year, planned to honour all 32 men of the parish who fell in the Great War and the 115 who are known to have survived."
In the meantime, if you have knowledge, memorabilia, or photographs of any individual of the parish who served in any capacity during the First World War, telephone or email Mr Seward, on (01635) 200728 or CAPHGWW1@gmail.com