The only Colchester fireman to die in the line of duty is to finally get a gravestone - more than 70 years after he was buried.

For all that time Lieutenant Frank Naylor has lain in an unmarked plot at Colchester Cemetery.

Now that is to change, thanks to his grandson Brian Baker, 62, who has organised a memorial service and a headstone.

Mr Naylor was aged 53 and second in command at Colchester Corporation Fire Brigade when he died on July 31, 1923.

The brigade had put out a blaze at Paull's cycle shop in High Street and were damping down when the tragedy happened. He was struck by a collapsing chimney stack and knocked 30 feet to the ground. He was survived by a widow and eight children, the youngest aged six and disabled.

Despite a hero's funeral and tributes in the local press, his grave remained anonymous among the hoards of others at Colchester Cemetery.

Mr Baker, a retired chartered engineer who lives in Shelley Road, Lexden, Colchester, said: "I remember some years ago my mother showing me a photograph of him but I never knew the details until a few years ago."

That is when he discovered an article about his death and burial by former Colchester firemen Roger Southgate.

Mr Baker: "When I discovered his grave was unmarked I knew something should be done and many people agreed."

As a result Mr Baker and his family have clubbed together with Colchester Council and Colchester firefighters to buy the grave and headstone.

It will be unveiled at a special memorial service on the anniversary of his death, at 11am on Saturday, July 31.

Mr Baker's brother - former Tendring Council chairman Frank Baker, of Montbretia Court, Clacton, who was named after Mr Naylor - will make a speech. Other family members, Colchester firefighters and a representative from Colchester Council will also attend.

Members of the public are invited too. For more information contact Mr Baker on 01206 572111

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