Notes
Stanmore is also the site of Bentley Priory then the Headquarters of RAF Fighter Command. On 13th October 1940 a heavy daylight raid took place by German fighter bombers on the town. The railway station took direct hits and many casualties were sustained there. Dr. Buckley’s home was only 250 yards from the station and was also hit during this bombing, he was fatally wounded and died later that day. It was his son William’s 21st birthday, his son Laurence suffered perforation of the ear drum and his entry into the RAF was delayed several months whilst he recovered. Dr. Buckley’s funeral was at noon on 19th October 1940 and the Parish Church of St. Peter & St. Paul was packed with townspeople. His wife, Suzanne was also badly injured, she lived a few weeks but sadly died of wounds received on 7th November 1940.
Leonard Buckley and Suzanne Buckley are buried together in the Wincanton cemetery along with their baby daughter Jacqueline.