April 30th 2021 would’ve been Captain Tom Moore’s 101st birthday; in recognition and in remembrance of his achievement, a new challenge was announced by his family. They challenged ordinary folk to complete a hundred somethings to raise more funds for The Captain Tom Foundation – ‘whether you bake 100 cupcakes or walk 100 laps – help celebrate Captain Tom’s achievements.’ The official ‘Captain Tom 100’ has now finished, but I’ve challenged myself to write a 100 word blog each day for 100 days. I started on May 1st and when I complete my task, I’ll donate £100 to his Foundation.
Day 34
Robert Blake 1598-1657, was born in Bridgwater to Humphrey and Anne Blake. You can visit his family home, and be amazed at how small it is for a family of fifteen. Few people know of him, even Bridgwarterians, seeing his statue and pubs and places named after him, wouldn’t know he was one of our greatest naval commanders. He became an MP then joined the New Model Army, distinguishing himself at Bristol, Lyme Regis, Taunton and Dunster. However, it’s his career at sea for which he should be most recognised, instrumental in founding the Royal Navy as we know it.
Lois Elsden 