Bertie Edward Stebbings

A Trimmer with H.M. Trawler Glenprosen, Bertie died on 3rd of November 1916 at the age of 17. 

Bertie was born at Barsham, near Beccles, on 17 March 1899, a son of Samuel and Emma Eliza Stebbings. In 1901 his family lived at The Cottage, Roos Hall, Barsham. In 1911 his family lived at Oulton Street, Oulton. Later their home was at 8 Meadow Cottages, Oulton, Lowestoft. 

Bertie joined the Royal Naval Reserve on 14 July 1915, claiming to be two years older than he actually was. He served on the trawler Glenprosen.

On 3 November 1916 the Glenprosen was sailing in the North Sea about one nautical mile north-north-east of the Cross Sands Lightship when the trawler struck a mine and sank. Five of the crew, including Bertie, were killed. 

Bertie's brother Frederick served in the Royal Naval Patrol Service and died in 1940.