Looking back at when Prince Philip got lost in Reading

And as there was so much going on in the area at the time, we have decided to stay with that year for this week’s edition, to remind ourselves of what was happening in Berkshire at that time.

One of the standout stories from the time was that several soldiers from the local area took part in the Army ski championships at St. Moritz in Switzerland.

Major George Henry Brittain

Two of the most notable participants were Major George Henry Brittain and Major Edmund Robin Bruford Davies who come from Earley and Wargrave respectively.

The soldiers attending the ski event was ironic as at that same time in England, the country was enduring one of the worst snow storms it had ever faced.

Major Edmund Robin Bruford Davies

Away from the weather problems and focusing on royalty, 1963 also saw the late Prince Phillip visit Reading, but not without its issues.

You see, the Duke of Edinburgh had scheduled to meet a member of the A.A at Brock Barracks, but the Queen’s husband arrived 10 minutes late.

He visited the town's Barracks in 1963

Doesn’t sound that big of an issue as people are late all the time, but, why was he late?

The Prince was in good spirits despite being late

Well, it’s because his Royal Highness got lost at a diversion at Berkley Avenue.

Smiles all round with the Duke

So, even members of the Royal Family can sometimes struggle with road closures.

He got lost at a diversion in the town

Prince Philip visited the town to present a marksmanship shield at the Barracks.

Another standout story from the time was about Reading’s very own Little Billy – a man, from Earley, who suffered from dwarfism and was part of the Bertram Mills Circus.

Well, Little Billy, whose real name is Billy Merchant, became the proud owner a specially-adapted Triumph-Herald car.

Little Billy and his car

The car had a specially built-up seat, and the foot operated apparatus had been extended to suit Billy’s needs.

He first moved to the town in 1950 and became a fan of Reading FC, where he was seen regularly attending matches at the Royals’ old ground, Elm Park.

Little Billy was a popular face in Reading

That same year saw Berkshire’s very own Arthur Punt turn 100-years-old, and at the age of 92, Wokingham’s very own Hon. Mary Corfield, showed off a piece of embroidery that took her nearly one year to complete.

Arthur Punt of Reading

The piece was so eye-catching that even the late Queen Mother congratulated Mrs Corfield on her work.

Hon. Mary Corfield

Everyone celebrated Lifeboat Day

Finally, the Mayor and Mayoress of Reading were spotted helping out as flag sellers on Lifeboat Day that year.