William Arnold Ridley, OBE (7 January 1896 – 12 March 1984) was an English playwright and actor, earlier in his career known for writing the play The Ghost Train and later in life for portraying the elderly Private Godfrey in the British sitcom Dad's Army. But did you know that he was a veteran of both World wars as well as a member of the Home Guard in real life? Find out some of his amazing experiences from the front line and what happened to him on his return.

Support the Show

This podcast has been specially edited from a Bradley Stoke Radio show in Bristol, England.

Donations

If you liked it please leave a rating and maybe a comment and if you’d like to support the show with a donation, however small, you can go to Ko-Fi.com

Merchandise

Some more great news for you, if you were interested in buying merchandise featuring the show’s logo, then pop over to Teepublic.com, you’ll find lots of things to choose from.

So, thankyou for listening and until next time guys, take care and look after each other.

CONTACT ME…

Email: info@backtracker.co.uk

Facebook: @BackTrackerUK

Instagram: @backtrackeruk

Twitter: @BackTrackerUK

-

The BIG Bristol to London Stroll

If you wish to donate and sponsor our endeavours to raise money for the Suicide Prevention Bristol charity, then go to our dedicated Justgiving page. This walk and the money raised is dedicated to Sara, who sadly passed away in March this year. Remember, if you feel low, there's always someone you can talk to and you are more important than you probably know.

Thanks in advance for your support.

SOURCES

GRO Register of Births: MAR 1896 5c 543 BATH – William Arnold Ridley

GRO Register of Deaths: JUN 1984 13 934 HILLINGDON, MIDDLESEX – William Arnold Ridley, DoB = 7 January 1896 aged 88

Arnold Ridley, The Train and Other Ghosts (1970c)

Sound Effects by zapsplat.com

Intro music by The Model Folk

© THE BACKTRACKER HISTORY SHOW 2021