Facebook group starts search for relatives of man who is buried in Goole Cemetery

A member of a Facebook group who are passionate of The Great War has started a campaign to find relatives of Private Ralph James Hoult.

The Facebook group named ‘Cemeteries and Memorials of the Great War’ was set up for people to interact with those who share a passionate interest in the remembrance of soldiers who fought in the Great War.

The group now has over 2,000 members.

A member of the group posted a photograph of the headstone of Ralph James Hoult, who fought in the war for four years, returned home and lived until 1966.

As soon as Dave Barlee saw the picture, he decided to try to do something to replace the headstone with something that recognised his service to our country. Unfortunately the headstone does not qualify for a Commonwealth War Graves headstone as he lived past the deadline date, however Dave believes something more fitting is needed.

Members of the group were in agreement and are now trying to contact any of his living relatives, with the hope that they will give the group their blessing and permission to go ahead.

If permission is granted, a Crowdfunding page will be set up as a number of people are willing to contribute towards the goal.

Dave Barlee told Our Goole: “It is imperative that we can contact his relatives as we must have their permission to replace the headstone.”

If you require any further information please feel free to contact Dave Barlee on 07941945356