Rae Crescent, a street in Wantage, was named in honour of Captain Stuart Rae, who was posthumously awarded the Elizabeth Cross. Captain Rae lost his life while serving in Oman’s Sultan’s Armed Forces in 1971. On April 28, a naming ceremony took place with his sister, Liz Keevill, attending as the guest of honour. The ceremony also saw participation from Wantage Mayor Jim Sibbald, Royal Marine dignitaries, and local residents.
Mayor Jim Sibbald collaborated with development company St. Modwen to commemorate Captain Rae’s legacy, which holds deep significance for both Rae’s family and the local community. Captain Rae’s connection to Wantage stretches back to his youth, where he was part of the Third King Alfred Scouts. In his memory, the Scouts have introduced a special initiative called the “Stuart Rae Challenge.”
Further recognition of his influence came from Bear Grylls, who wrote a letter acknowledging the positive impact of Captain Rae’s life on the scouting community. This heartfelt letter was read out at the event, underlining how his legacy extends well beyond Wantage.
A sunset ceremony was a key highlight of the evening, featuring a performance by the Wantage Silver Band and the traditional lowering of the White Ensign. The event was attended by multiple dignitaries, including Brigadier Blease, deputy lieutenant for Wantage; Commodore Bellfield, naval regional commander for eastern England; and Colonel Turner, representative of the Commandant-General Royal Marines. Former Wantage Mayor Steve Trinder was also present to pay his respects.
Reflecting on the ceremony, Mayor Jim Sibbald said: “On a fine Friday evening, it was appropriate to honour the memory of Captain Stuart Rae Royal Marines and to highlight the legacy that he has left to Wantage and the King Alfred District Scouts in particular. In addition to all the dignitaries who attended, I would like to thank the mayors’ (Abingdon and Wantage) Cadets for their turnout and participation, Concert Brass of Wantage Silver Band for their excellent performance, St. Modwen for hosting and providing the refreshments and, of course, the residents of Rae Crescent for joining us and learning about the history and importance behind their street.”
Dinny Shaw, strategic land head of planning at St. Modwen, expressed the company’s pride in being part of this significant commemoration. Shaw commented: “St. Modwen is dedicated to bringing communities together, and I am pleased that we were able to commemorate the life of a hero of significant local importance through our work at Kingsgrove. Thank you to our partners Wantage Town Council and the Royal Marines, and of course everyone else who helped to make the event a great success.”
If you’d like to explore more local events or find opportunities to engage with groups in the area, be sure to browse our directory. Visitors can also submit their own events to bring the community together.
