Dear Editor,
In an unrelated matter, I was searching Google maps for an address on the estate near Thinford and in the process came across a street called ‘Blenkin Way’.
My ancestors, William Blenkin and his son Anthony were both local councillors.
Thinking the name may be something to do with them, I contacted the local authority and was told all the roads are named after local men who perished in the First World War and ‘Blenkin Way’ is named after Sergeant John Thomas Blenkin of the Royal Engineers, who died in a prisoner of war camp in Germany on 11th November 1918, Armistice Day.
John Thomas Blenkin, known within the family as ‘our Jack’ was the eldest brother of my father Robert Blenkin. He was born and grew up in Low Spennymoor. I am privileged to have photographs of his funeral and details of the words said at his graveside.
I wish to share my unexpected discovery with readers who may be, as I was, unaware of this memorial to men who lost their lives.
Yours sincerely,
Mrs Margaret Meek (nee Blenkin), Tudhoe
Spennymoor's local community newspaper.
