A Special Great Grandad & WW2: Edward Charles Hendley
Edie from Paddock Wood Primary Academy was a finalist for Kents Big Writing Challenge in 2022. She wrote about her beloved Great Grandad and her work was chosen from a large range of skill and talent from across Kent. We are very proud to present it here and sincerely thank Edie and her family for allowing us to share her work, and achievement, with you.
This was part of a post Covid Programme to give children and young people an opportunity to rediscover the fun of writing. Kent County Council Reconnect Programme sponsored this as a KM Charity Team competition.
Edie attended the prize giving event in Canterbury with her family and her work was published in a hard backed book as illustrated. Among many others Edie met Nick Butterworth, well known author and illustrator.
Image of poppies provided by Edie’s family
Edie’s Great Grandad (L) Edward Charles Hendley, with a colleague. Picture provided by family ©
Edie’s Great Grandad (R), Edward Charles Hendley, with a colleague. Picture provided by family ©
Edie with Nick Butterworth, well known author and illustrator of childrens’ books. Picture provided by family ©
Edie’s page in the book
Great Grandad
My Great Grandad (Edward Charles Hendley) is my hero because of his amazing life achievements. Edward (Ted to his friends) turned 99 years old this April and we can't wait to celebrate his 100th birthday with him next year!
As he is 99, Great Grandad is very deaf, but with a raised voice he can hear you and talk to you clearly.
In 1941, my Great Grandad was sent off to World War II, he was only 18 years old. He went to South Africa and Italy during the war, but thankfully survived and returned home in 1945. He loves to tell us stories about how it was back then and what his life was like. He was married for 72 years to my Great Grandma, Betty who sadly passed away in March, aged 96. When they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary, they received an anniversary card from HRH Queen Elizabeth II herself!
Great Grandad owned a motorbike, but never in his whole life got a drivers licence or a car. He was a keen gardener and won awards for his vegetables and plants!
Me and my whole family love him so much!!
Edie presented with her certificate.
Great Grandad (left) Great Grandad (right)